Supporting the designation of the week of September 22 through September 28, 2024, as "National Fall Prevention Awareness Week" to raise awareness about, and encourage the prevention of, falls among older adults.

Legislation Details

Designates the week of September 22 through September 28, 2024, as “National Fall Prevention Awareness Week.”
Aims to raise awareness about falls among older adults and encourage prevention efforts.
Highlights that approximately 14 million falls occur among older adults over age 65 each year.
Notes that these falls lead to about 3 million emergency room visits annually.
States that falls cause approximately 39,000 preventable deaths each year among older adults.
Indicates that more than 25% of older adults in the U.S. experience falls each year.
Identifies falls as the leading cause of injury and injury-related deaths in adults aged 65 and older.
Reports that the total direct medical costs of fall-related injuries for older adults are around $80 billion annually.
Emphasizes that many falls can be prevented by addressing modifiable risk factors.
Mentions evidence-based programs that effectively reduce falls through strategies like exercise, medication management, and home hazard reduction.
Supports collaboration among various government entities, community organizations, and healthcare providers to address fall risk factors.
Encourages ongoing efforts and federal investments in fall prevention programs.