In Massachusetts, for people age 65 years and older falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations and Emergency Department visits as well as the leading cause of injury-related deaths. However, falls should never be considered a normal part of the aging process, because most falls are preventable.
There is a lot of information available on how older adults (and their caregivers) can reduce fall risks, avoid fall-related injuries and follow a healthy aging approach to life. This includes learning more about evidence-based falls prevention programs offered in most communities, removing hazards in the home environment, reviewing medications that may have negative side effects, etc. There is also information available on what to do if a fall happens to reduce further injury.
Resources for older adults and caregivers
- National Council on Aging (NCOA)-Center for Healthy Aging
- NCOA-Learn about Evidence-Based Programs
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- CDC-STEADI Toolkit-Info. for Consumers/Caregivers
- Medication Safety and Older Adults-Health in Aging Foundation-AGS
- AARP-Home Alone Alliance
Falls materials and videos also available in Spanish. - National Institute on Aging
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Finding local services and supports
- Executive Office of Elder Affairs (EOEA) - Home page
- MassOptions (EOEA)
- MA Councils on Aging
- Healthy Living Center of Excellence
Look for community-based falls and chronic disease self-management programs. - Eldercare Locator - Administration on Aging