HONOLULU — The state Department of Health and the Hawai‘i Fall Prevention Consortium are launching a statewide campaign to reduce kupuna fall injuries. The campaign runs through July 17, and features new public-service announcements, tai chi classes, a tai chi instructor workshop, medication reviews for seniors, “Fall Proof” workshops and community presentations that focus on preventing falls among older adults.
HONOLULU — The state Department of Health and the Hawai‘i Fall Prevention Consortium are launching a statewide campaign to reduce kupuna fall injuries. The campaign runs through July 17, and features new public-service announcements, tai chi classes, a tai chi instructor workshop, medication reviews for seniors, “Fall Proof” workshops and community presentations that focus on preventing falls among older adults.
“Almost every hour, a senior is transported by ambulance to an emergency department in our state because of a fall injury. Yet many falls and fall-related injuries can be prevented with existing knowledge and technology,” said Dr. Alvin Bronstein, chief of the DOH Emergency Medical Services and Injury Prevention Systems Branch. “The DOH is glad to be continuing this valuable program to help ensure the safety and well-being of Hawai‘i seniors.”
Each year from 2016-21, Hawai‘i averaged 144 seniors deaths, 2,251 hospitalizations and 10,046 people treated in emergency departments because of unintentional falls.
Elderly are disproportionately affected by falls. Statistics show those older than age 65 are the most vulnerable. Falls have emotional and physical impacts to both seniors and their caregivers, creating a significant financial toll on families and the health-care system. Over $223 million in hospital and physician charges were incurred in 2021 for fall-related injuries in Hawai‘i.
The Hawai‘i Fall Prevention Consortium was founded in 2003 with support and leadership from the DOH Injury Prevention and Control Program. The consortium includes government agencies, professional associations, nonprofits, hospitals and senior organizations.
The DOH offers important advice to seniors, their family members and caregivers to prevent falls and fall-related injuries that can limit mobility and independence:
• Have a doctor or pharmacist review medications yearly;
• Get an annual eye exam;
• Those living alone should get a personal electronic safety device;
• Make the home safer by removing fall hazards and improving lighting;
• Exercise regularly to increase balance and flexibility.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, evidence-based exercise programs such as Tai Chi for Health can increase strength and improve balance, making falls much less likely.
“Aging Isn’t for Sissies” fall-prevention presentations will continue at various locations around O‘ahu and neighbor islands pending current COVID specifications and protocols. The Emergency Medical Services and Injury Prevention System Branch is scheduling presentations based on community requests. Call 808-733-9202 or email stanley.michaels@doh.hawaii.gov to inquire as to when and where the next event will be.
