September is Fall Prevention Month

Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults in the United States, and they can have life-altering consequences. However, many falls are preventable through awareness, physical activity, and the proper support. Fall prevention is especially important in South Dakota, where the state’s Fall Prevention Coalition has taken steps to raise awareness and provide resources for older adults, caregivers, and healthcare providers.

As we age, changes in balance, strength, and vision can increase the likelihood of a fall. According to the South Dakota Department of Health, one out of every four adults aged 65 and older experiences a fall each year. In addition to the physical impact—broken bones, head injuries, and prolonged recovery—falls can lead to psychological distress, making seniors fearful of future falls. This can cause them to reduce physical activity, which further weakens their strength and balance, creating a dangerous cycle.

The Governor’s Proclamation on fall prevention in 2024 has drawn attention to the importance of addressing this issue at the state level. It emphasizes the need for active participation from the healthcare community, older adults, caregivers, and service providers. This call to action underscores the vital role that prevention strategies play in keeping older adults healthy and independent.

Risk Factors for Falls

Identifying risk factors is the first step in fall prevention. The South Dakota Fall Prevention Coalition outlines several key areas to monitor:

  1. Medication management: Certain medications can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or a drop in blood pressure, which may increase fall risk.

  2. Home hazards: Poor lighting, clutter, and slippery floors can create hazardous environments for seniors.

  3. Physical limitations: Reduced muscle strength, mobility issues, or balance problems can make it more difficult to navigate everyday tasks.

  4. Sensory issues: Vision problems, hearing loss, and impaired depth perception also contribute to falls.

Each of these risk factors can be mitigated with the right interventions, whether it's modifying the home environment, adjusting medication, or incorporating balance training exercises.

Kore Cares’ Role in Fall Prevention

At Kore Cares, fall prevention is central to our mission of providing compassionate, in-home care for seniors. Our caregivers are trained to recognize fall risks and implement strategies to keep clients safe. We offer personalized care plans that help seniors maintain their independence while staying protected from potential hazards.

Some of the ways Kore Cares supports fall prevention include:

  • Home Safety Assessments: A thorough evaluation of the home to identify and address potential hazards such as loose rugs, uneven steps, or poor lighting.

  • Physical Assistance: Helping clients with mobility issues get around their homes safely, whether it's through walking support or ensuring they have access to assistive devices.

  • Exercise Programs: Encouraging light physical activity and exercises focused on improving balance and strength, which can significantly reduce the risk of falling.

  • Medication Management: Assisting with medication schedules to prevent dizziness or drowsiness that could lead to falls.

  • Companionship: Seniors who live alone are more likely to experience falls. Having a caregiver present can offer peace of mind, knowing help is available when needed.

These services align with the Fall Prevention Coalition’s goals, ensuring that older adults have access to the support and resources they need to stay safe in their homes.

While professional support from services like ours is invaluable, there are steps that individuals can take on their own to reduce fall risk:

  1. Stay Active: Engaging in regular physical activity helps improve balance, flexibility, and strength. Exercises like walking or light yoga are particularly beneficial.

  2. Wear Proper Footwear: Shoes with non-slip soles and good arch support can make a big difference in preventing slips and trips.

  3. Check Vision and Hearing: Regular eye and ear exams help detect changes that could increase fall risk, such as depth perception issues or hearing impairments that affect balance.

  4. Eliminate Hazards: Removing clutter, installing grab bars, and improving lighting in frequently used areas are simple but effective ways to create a safer home.

  5. Review Medications: Consult with a doctor or pharmacist to ensure that medications aren’t causing side effects that contribute to falls, such as dizziness or drowsiness.

Raising Awareness and Taking Action

Fall prevention should be a priority for everyone involved in the care of older adults, from family members to healthcare providers. The Governor’s Proclamation for fall prevention month in September highlights the importance of ongoing education, community involvement, and proactive strategies to address fall risk.

At Kore Cares, we are proud to play a key role in fall prevention efforts, offering seniors the personalized support they need to prevent falls while maintaining their independence. As we continue to raise awareness about this critical issue, it’s essential to empower seniors and their caregivers with the tools and knowledge they need to stay safe.

Fall prevention isn’t just about avoiding accidents—it’s about ensuring that older adults can live their lives with confidence, comfort, and dignity. By taking a proactive approach and utilizing the resources available through Kore Cares and the Fall Prevention Coalition, we can make a lasting impact on the well-being of South Dakota’s aging population.

For more information on fall prevention resources, you can visit the South Dakota Department of Health’s Fall Prevention Coalition and view the full 2024 Governor's Proclamation here.

Kore Cares offers a comprehensive medical alert system designed to enhance the safety and peace of mind of seniors and their families. This user-friendly device allows individuals to call for help at the push of a button, ensuring that assistance is always available when needed. The system provides 24/7 monitoring by trained professionals who can dispatch emergency medical services (EMS) or contact a designated emergency contact based on the situation. With advanced features such as fall detection and GPS tracking, our medical alert system empowers seniors to maintain their independence while ensuring that help is readily accessible in any emergency.

Having a caregiver assist with transfers significantly reduces the risk of falls, a common concern for seniors. Falls often occur during moments of instability, such as when moving from a bed to a chair or transitioning from sitting to standing. Kore Cares caregivers are trained to use proper techniques and supportive equipment to help stabilize these movements, ensuring that seniors are securely supported throughout the process. By providing steady hands, guidance, and personalized attention, caregivers can prevent slips, loss of balance, and sudden movements that might otherwise lead to a fall. This proactive assistance helps create a safer environment, promoting confidence and reducing anxiety for both seniors and their families.

To learn more about services Kore Cares can provide you or your loved ones please visit our services page.

For more information please call 1-888-546-0704.

Cassie Beisch