The Injury Prevention team at Lee Health is dedicated to educating Lee County and surrounding communities on fall awareness. Our team collaborates closely with the Lee County Injury Prevention Coalition, which comprises numerous experts from health and safety agencies. Our multidisciplinary partnership includes public and private stakeholders, such as fire and rescue services, emergency medical services, law enforcement agencies, hospital outreach programs and local health organizations. These collaborative efforts facilitate the provision of valuable resources, enhance operational efficiency and ensure consistent messaging in safety education for the surrounding communities.
Some experts contend that enhancing our understanding of falls’ role in mortality can contribute to increased longevity, particularly as individuals age when the consequences of falls become more severe. While individuals over 65 exhibit a heightened vulnerability to falling, people across all age groups face an elevated risk.
Implementing fundamental yet critical fall prevention measures can significantly mitigate unintentional injuries and fatalities resulting from falls. According to a report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, from 2003 to 2023, the death rates associated with falls increased by over 70% among adults aged 65 to 74, by more than 75% for those aged 75 to 84 and have more than doubled for seniors aged 85 and older. Additionally, other experts have identified that alterations in auditory and visual perception are among the various factors contributing to falls. Furthermore, medications, inappropriate footwear and chronic health conditions can initiate a series of health complications following a fall. Here’s how to aid in the prevention of falls.
• Recognize your risk of falling and take measures to correct preventable issues.
• Identify hazards such as balance/coordination problems, hearing/vision issues, and specific health problems that may put you at a greater risk of falling.
• Wear appropriate footwear.
• Use safe ladder practice when working inside and outside of the home.
• Use safer alternatives like step stools instead of furniture in the home.
• Throw rugs and other home decorating items left on the floor can be fall hazards.
• Use caution with pets, large or small. They can get under your feet, causing you to lose your balance and fall.
• Be aware of small children in your home and be extra cautious to know where they are always (especially when they are crawling or “new walkers,” toddler age).
• Use “plug-in” nightlights.
• Make sure to have lighting at the top and bottom of the stairs.
• Use nonslip mats, especially in bathrooms.
• Install handrails where needed.
• Wear footwear with rubber, nonskid soles.
• Complete yearly routine checkups, including chronic illnesses, vision, and hearing.
References
• Older Adults in the U.S. are Dying from Unintentional Falls. (2025). U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved from: Older adults in the U.S. are increasingly dying from unintentional falls. CNN
• Tracey N. Thornton, MBA, BSHA, AHA, LPN
