After the age of 65, physical changes, medical conditions, and medication usage can increase a person’s risk of falling. While not all falls are serious, falls continue to remain the leading cause of injury and injury-related death among older adults in the United States. Seniors often develop the fear of falling and become less physically and socially active, and therefore become more dependent and less confident. Knowing the risks and being familiar with fall-prevention measures can help prevent falls and fall-related injuries. The Stand Up to Falling program introduces the seriousness and consequences of falls, but also focuses on four preventable risk factors as identified by the CDC: lack of exercise, unsafe home environments, vision problems, and medication usage. When these factors are properly addressed, people can lower their chance of falling and even prevent a fall from occurring.

The Breckinridge County FCS Agent presented Stand Up to Falling program to the Lincoln Trail Area Homemakers through a recorded presentation and mailout publications.  Fifteen program surveys were returned. Of these all the participants were women, ranging in age from 45-84 (most participants were 65-74 years old--40%). One participant was American Indian/Alaskan and one reported Latina/Hispanic ethnicity. Most participants reported that their racial identity was white (80%).

The program met the expectations of all the participants, and all felt it was informative and worth their time. Many participants (75%) reported that the program increased their understanding on how to prevent falls.

As a result of the program participants reported intentions to address the following fall risks: 9 participants intend to get their vision checked and medication managed; 12 participants intend to exercise and be sure their home environment is safe. Also 60% of participants reported that they believe the risk of falling can be reduced.

From this program participants shared that they learned:

• What to do when you fall
• More about the importance of physical activity and exercise, including leg and thigh strengthening
• The importance of home safety and keeping areas clutter-free
• Watching where you walk
• Vision changes and the importance of vision and medical check-ups
• Talking to a doctor about balance
• Leaving a key with a neighbor
• Medication management