Falling – just that word evokes different reactions from each person. Some of us don’t think about it at all, some of us have experienced some “close calls,” some of us have “gotten lucky” when we fell and avoided injury. Unfortunately, for many in our community, falling is continuously on their mind because it’s a monthly, weekly, or even daily threat or occurrence.
A few eye-opening statistics: 1 in 4 people over the age of 65 and 1 of 2 over the age of 80 fall every year and our Brown County 60+ population is projected to increase by 50% by the year 2040. In Brown County, we are averaging a reported 32 falls each day. If those are the “reported” falls, we can confidently assume there are many more occurring that go unreported. In 2021, 53% of all trauma cases reported in the Northeast WI region were due to falls. 60% of all nursing home admissions were due to a fall. And last, but certainly not least, Wisconsin is #1 in the nation in fall-related deaths.
These statistics are presented to emphasize both the impact falls can have on individual independence and choice and highlight how many public service programs are heavily impacted, such as EMS/fire department calls, emergency room visits, hospital admissions, and nursing home stays. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce our risk.
The Brown County Falls Prevention Partnership is working to bring community entities together in a collaborative effort to both support those experiencing falls and to help them connect to information and resources that may help reduce their risk. This is a direct link for community members and first responders on the scene, to community resources, such as ADRC or other entities.
Loss of independence is something many of us guard against feverishly. People isolate themselves for fear of being taken from their home. This often leads to less information, less resources, and more falls with more serious injuries.
Community partners want to help you stay in your home. We can have open conversation about challenges you’re facing and ways to meet and overcome them. Some topics we can explore include:
• Physical environment
• Medicare equipment
• Home modifications
• Medication interactions
• Clothing/footwear
• Access to nutrition
• Fall prevention education
• Low impact strength & balance classes
• Indoor/outdoor chore services
Your goal of safety and independence is our goal for you. What would life look like with less fear of falls? What would help you feel confident in your movements and environment? Do you think reducing your fall risk will help maintain your independence? We are your community partner – let’s envision that world together and bring it into our reality! Contact ADRC at (920) 448-4300 for more information and resources for fall prevention.
