Unlock Lifelong Mobility: Intermountain Health's Vital Campaign to Prevent Falls and Empower Healthy Aging

As we gracefully journey through life, the desire to maintain independence and an active lifestyle remains paramount. Yet, for many older adults, the specter of falls looms large, threatening not just physical well-being but also confidence and quality of life. Intermountain Health is stepping up with a vital initiative, "Stay Safe, Stay Mobile," designed to empower seniors and their loved ones with the knowledge and tools to prevent falls and champion lifelong mobility.

The numbers are sobering: a startling one in four adults over the age of 65 experiences a fall each year.

These aren't just minor tumbles; falls are tragically the leading cause of injury-related emergency department visits and deaths in this age group. Beyond the immediate physical trauma—like debilitating hip fractures, wrist breaks, or dangerous head injuries—falls often ignite a profound fear of falling.

This fear can lead to a vicious cycle of reduced activity, social isolation, and further muscle weakness, paradoxically increasing the risk of future falls and diminishing overall well-being.

Understanding the culprits behind these falls is the first step toward prevention. Dr. John H. Hunter, a distinguished geriatrician at Intermountain Health, highlights a range of factors.

Poor balance, often a natural consequence of aging, is a significant contributor. Vision impairment can obscure hazards, while certain medications, particularly those that cause dizziness or drowsiness, can throw off equilibrium. An unsafe home environment—cluttered pathways, inadequate lighting, or lack of support handrails—also plays a critical role.

Moreover, declining muscle strength, especially in the legs, leaves individuals less able to recover from a stumble.

The encouraging news, as emphasized by Dr. Andrew Narva, an orthopedic surgeon at Intermountain Health, is that the vast majority of falls are preventable. Proactive measures, when adopted consistently, can significantly reduce risk and foster greater confidence:

• Embrace Movement: Regular exercise is a cornerstone of fall prevention.

  Activities that build leg strength and improve balance, such as walking, tai chi, yoga, or specific balance training programs, are incredibly beneficial. Staying active keeps muscles strong and reflexes sharp.

• Prioritize Vision Health: Schedule routine eye examinations. Clear vision is crucial for navigating surroundings safely and identifying potential obstacles.

  Ensure your eyeglass prescription is current.

• Review Medications Regularly: Discuss all prescription and over-the-counter medications with your doctor or pharmacist. Some drugs can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or interact in ways that increase fall risk. Adjustments or alternatives might be available.
• Transform Your Home Environment: Conduct a thorough home safety check.

  Remove tripping hazards like throw rugs or loose wires. Improve lighting, especially in stairwells and bathrooms. Install grab bars in showers and next to toilets, and consider handrails on both sides of stairs.

• Choose Smart Footwear: Opt for supportive, non-slip shoes with good traction.

  Avoid walking in socks on slippery floors or wearing ill-fitting slippers.

• Nourish Your Bones: A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is essential for maintaining strong bones, which can lessen the severity of injury if a fall does occur. Consult your doctor about appropriate supplementation.

Intermountain Health isn't just raising awareness; they are actively providing resources and support to the community.

Through educational programs, workshops, and community outreach, they are equipping individuals and caregivers with practical strategies and fostering an environment where healthy aging is celebrated and supported. Their dedication underscores a profound understanding: maintaining mobility and preventing falls is not just about avoiding injury, but about preserving dignity, independence, and the joy of a fulfilling life.

The "Stay Safe, Stay Mobile" campaign is more than a health initiative; it's a call to action for vibrant, active aging.

By taking proactive steps, embracing healthier habits, and utilizing the invaluable resources offered by Intermountain Health, older adults can significantly reduce their risk of falls, confidently navigate their world, and continue to live life to its fullest, with strength, balance, and unwavering independence.