NOVEMBER IS FALL PREVENTION MONTH
Did you know? Fall is a leading public health issue across age groups and settings in Alberta. According to AHS, in 2022, 154,004 Albertans visited emergency and urgent care and 17,489 Albertans were hospitalized due to a fall. Falls can happen at home, at school, in recreation and leisure, in sports, in the community, at work and even on vacation.
Among older adults, falls are the leading cause of injury according to Finding Balance Alberta (2021). 1 in 3 adults over 65 years of age will fall at least once a year. Our bodies naturally change with age and these changes affect the way we feel, move, and behave. A fall can have a devastating and lasting impact on a person, resulting in injury, chronic pain and a reduced quality of life. Even without an injury, a fall can cause an older adult to lose confidence and reduce their activities. The good news is that there are actions you can take to prevent falls.
All Canadians have a role to play in preventing falls. Take action to prevent falls during Fall Prevention Month this November. Raise awareness about fall prevention in your community!
