Falling is a leading cause of injury in older New Mexicans

SANTA FE – Falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths, hospitalizations and emergency department visits for New Mexicans 65 years and older.

More than 17% of New Mexicans are 65 years or older. By 2030 New Mexico is projected to rank 4th in the nation in the percentage of population aged 65 or older. Falls Prevention Awareness Week, September 23-27, is a time to take proactive steps either for yourself or your elderly family members to prevent falls.

“Falls are not an inevitable part of aging, and most fall-related injuries can be prevented,” said Dr. Miranda Durham, Chief Medical Officer for the New Mexico Department of Health (NMHealth). “A key way to lower the risk of falls is to focus on building strength and improving balance, which can be as easy as finding an exercise routine that suits your lifestyle.”

“As we age, preventing falls becomes a critical part of maintaining our independence and quality of life,” said Antoinette Vigil, Aging and Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD) Deputy Cabinet Secretary. “This week is a reminder to take preventive and proactive measures now, so that older New Mexicans can remain active in their homes and communities for years to come.”

State experts recommend:

• Find a good exercise program to build balance, strength and flexibility. Contact 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773) to find a class near you.
• Ask your health care provider for an assessment of your risk of falling and be sure to share your history of any recent falls.
• Regularly review your medications with your health care provider and pharmacist to ensure side effects don’t increase your risk of falling.
• Get your vision and hearing checked annually and update your eyeglasses.
• Keep your home safe by removing trip hazards, increasing lighting, securing handrails and installing grab bars in key areas.

If you are a caregiver or family member of someone 65 years of age or older here are some steps you can take:

• Speak with your family members about whether they are concerned about falling.
• Ask about their current health conditions and medications to help assess their risk.
• Remind them to get annual vision and hearing checks.
• Do a walk through of their home and help address any safety upgrades such as better lighting or the need for grab bars.
• Notice if your elderly family member is holding onto walls, furniture or other people when walking or they otherwise have difficulty walking or rising from a chair.

Older New Mexicans can stay healthy and independent by checking their risk for falling at the National Council for Aging’s Falls Free CheckUp. New Mexicans can also contact New Mexico Aging for assistance connecting to resources at 800-432-2080.