September webinars to help prevent falls among older adults

COVID-19 and its stay-at-home orders have brought alarming increases in the number of fall-related fractures for older adults, both nationally and among Providence patients. To help combat this and as part of National Fall Prevention Awareness Week, Providence Senior Health is offering free online classes in September that focus on aging well, staying mobile and reducing the risk of falls.

As stated by the National Council on Aging: “The coronavirus pandemic has changed a lot of things. One thing that’s still the same? Falling is NOT a normal part of aging.”

From April 2020 (the start of stay-at-home orders) to July 2020, Providence Orthopedic Institute has seen a 5% increase in hip fractures compared to the same time frame in 2019. About 95% of hip fractures are known to be from falls. 

Reasons for increased fall rates include a decrease in activity levels and related deconditioning for older adults. There are steps, however, that older adults can take to reduce their risk of falling. The National Council on Aging is extending its National Fall Prevention Awareness Day, normally the first day of fall, to a full week of awareness, Sept. 21-25.

During this time, Providence experts will offer educational classes focused on aging well, staying mobile, and reducing the risk of a serious fall. For the first time, these classes will be available online as webinars.

All events are free and open to the public. Please encourage your patients, friends or family members to attend.

  • Wednesday, Sept. 16, 1 p.m.-3 p.m.
  • Tuesday, Sept. 22, 10 a.m. to noon
  • Thursday, Sept. 24, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Webinars will include a short introduction to tai chi, which has been found to reduce fall risk by 50% when practiced regularly.

Visit providence.org/classes or call 503-574-6595 or 800-562-8964 to register. Webinar link and handouts will be provided upon registration. For more details, see this flier.
 

Authored by:
Colleen M. Casey, Ph.D., ANP-BC, associate clinical director, Providence Senior Health
Jamie Caulley, physical therapist and clinical liaison, Providence Senior Health

About the Author

The Pulse content team focuses on bringing you the latest in clinical news from our world-class medical providers and physician leaders.

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