Falls Prevention Awareness Day 2023: Date, History, Facts Falls Prevention Day

Falls Prevention Awareness Day 2023: The 22nd of September, the first day of autumn, is Falls Prevention Awareness Day, and this is a very significant matter that requires everyone’s attention. It is the primary cause of emergency department visits related to injuries, and the day is dedicated to addressing this public health issue. Falls can be more hazardous than they initially appear. They can cause bruising, hip fractures, and head injuries, and they have the potential to be fatal, particularly for the elderly; therefore, they require additional protection measures.

The Background of Falls Prevention Awareness Day

As individuals age, a number of their faculties begin to deteriorate. The eyesight deteriorates, as do the muscles and coordination. In 1972, psychology professor Dibner envisioned a method to assist the elderly during their golden years. When injured and unable to reach a phone, Dibner came up with the concept for a personal emergency response system. 1976, he was granted a patent for Lifeline Systems, a device that could be used to summon for assistance.

The invention of Dibs took off. Having direct access to medical services provided the elderly with the necessary assistance, and their loved ones with a sense of relief. In 1987, Isaac Shepher created Life Alert. This device was wearable as a necklace or wristband and contained an automated dialer that connected to a telephone line. As more emergency response systems were developed, they became more accessible and were able to assist a greater number of individuals in need.

In the 1990s, Life Alert became well-known due to a memorable advertisement. It depicted an elderly woman who falls and uses a medical alert pendant by uttering the now-famous catchphrase “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!” This advertisement’s brand recognition helped more of these products find their way into households.

In 2007, four state-level coalitions for the prevention of injuries observed injuries Prevention Awareness Day. The following year, The Falls Free State Coalitions on Falls Prevention Workgroup requested that Falls Prevention Awareness Day be celebrated on the first day of autumn. Since then, a number of states have collaborated with medical professionals and advocates to assist in resolving the problem of public health issues associated with falls.

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5 FACTS REGARDING FALLS PREVENTION DAY

In the United States, a senior adult falls every second of every day.

2015 Medicare costs for falls requiring medical treatment exceeded $31 billion.

Each year, more than three million older individuals are treated for injuries related to falls.

The most prevalent cause of traumatic brain injuries is falls.

Falls are the second leading cause of accidental or unintentional injury-related fatalities around the globe.

FALLS PREVENTION AWARENESS DAY DATES