I wrote a column back in January (and many times before that) on the subject of preventing falls.  This is a really important conversation because of the devastating impact falling can have on seniors, their families, and the health care system.

The Government of Canada reports on deaths and mortality rates due to falls. In 2021, 6,579 adults aged 65 years and older died of falls in Canada. Mortality rates generally rose with age among both men and women. In each age group, men had higher mortality rates compared to women, yet women had a higher overall rate of falling.  In total, more women died from falls compared to men, a finding reflecting the fact that there are more women than men aged 65 years and older in Canada.

The report goes on to talk about hospitalizations.  In 2022 there were 78,076 fall-related hospitalizations among adults aged 65 years and older, representing 88.6% of all injury-related hospitalizations among this age group. Of these falls, women accounted for nearly two-thirds of such hospitalizations. For both men and women, hospitalization rates increased with age. Over a third of fall-related hospitalizations among adults aged 65 years and older were associated with a hip fracture.  If you’re interested in reading detailed stats on falls in Canada check this website www.health-infobase.canada.ca

Rather than just, once again, share how to reduce your risk of falls, this time I’m sharing details on an event that will provide some great learning that you can put into practice immediately.  All are welcome to attend a Fall Prevention Information Session on Thursday, June 13^th at 2pm at the Wellington United Church.  We have a terrific line up of speakers.  You’ll hear from Laura McGugan, Community Care Co-ordinator; Dawn Calnan-Kerr, Registered Nurse with Prince Edward Family Health Team (PEFHT); and Ali Meteer, Nurse Practitioner with PEFHT.  They’ll share tips on preventing falls and also tell participants about local organizations that support seniors.  There will be a question & answer period and refreshments, too!

No registration is required for this event.  There’s lots of room for everyone to attend so mark your calendar.  For more information call 613-476-7493.

The risk of falling can be reduced and often prevented.  Take the first step to learning how to do this by attending the Information Session.  See you there!