8/28/08

Senior Stroll to highlight risk of falls

The festive mood of the annual Senior Picnic earlier this month turned serious when an elderly gentleman lost his footing on a concrete ramp leading up to the gazebo and fell on the hard concrete. Aid crews were dispatched, and within a few minutes the man was enjoying his lunch with only a few scratches to show for his mishap. Not all victims of falls are as lucky.

More than one-third of adults 65 and older fall each year in the United States. Falls are the leading cause of injuries in older adults and often result in hospital stays, lengthy rehabilitation programs and even a life-long need for nursing home care. In other words, falls often lead to loss of independence in older adults. The risk of being injured in a fall increases with age; both men and women are at risk.

In 2005 (the latest year numbers are available), 12,200 seniors in Washington state were hospitalized due to a fall. 491 statewide deaths were blamed on a fall. Washington posts one of the highest rates for senior falls. The northwest’s damp climate makes walkways slippery, and the lack of sunshine can lead to Vitamin D deficiency and weak bones.

To bring awareness to this important issue, the Snohomish County Falls Prevention Coalition will hold a Senior Stroll at the Everett Mall on September 18, 2008 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. In addition to an organized mall walk, visitors can peruse exhibits and find information about a variety of topics such as exercise demonstrations; blood pressure, hearing and vision checks; Matter of Balance presentations; and home safety information.

The event coincides with Governor Christine Gregoire’s proclamation declaring September 18, 2008 as Fall Prevention Awareness Day.

For additional information about the Senior Stroll, contact Leanne Blanchard at (425) 257-2111, ext. 3313, or Jan Skidmore at (425) 290-1250, ext. 223.