Falls Prevention Awareness Day 2013 - Radford

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Falls Prevention

Awareness Day 2013

Preventing Falls—One Step at a Time

A Compendium of State

and National Activities

November 2013

http://www.ncoa.org/

Falls Prevention Awareness Day 2013: A Compendium of State and National Activities

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Contents

Overview & Highlights .................................................................................................................... 4

Awareness & Education ............................................................................................................. 5

Evidence-Based Programs......................................................................................................... 5

Fall Risk Screenings ................................................................................................................... 6

Advocacy ..................................................................................................................................... 6

Partnership Building .................................................................................................................. 7

Arizona ............................................................................................................................................ 9

California.......................................................................................................................................10

Colorado........................................................................................................................................11

District of Columbia .....................................................................................................................12

Florida ...........................................................................................................................................13

Hawaii ...........................................................................................................................................14

Illinois ............................................................................................................................................15

Indiana ..........................................................................................................................................16

Iowa ...............................................................................................................................................17

Maine ............................................................................................................................................18

Maryland .......................................................................................................................................19

Massachusetts .............................................................................................................................20

Missouri ........................................................................................................................................21

Montana .......................................................................................................................................22

New Jersey ....................................................................................................................................23

Nevada ..........................................................................................................................................24

New Mexico ..................................................................................................................................25

New York .......................................................................................................................................26

North Carolina ..............................................................................................................................27

North Dakota ................................................................................................................................28

Ohio ...............................................................................................................................................29

Oregon ..........................................................................................................................................30

Pennsylvania ................................................................................................................................31

Tennessee ....................................................................................................................................32

Texas .............................................................................................................................................33

Washington...................................................................................................................................34

Wisconsin......................................................................................................................................35


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What Did We Learn? ....................................................................................................................36

Challenges/Barriers .................................................................................................................36

Success.....................................................................................................................................36

Future Needs ............................................................................................................................38

National Efforts ............................................................................................................................39

Website Metrics........................................................................................................................39

Media Coverage .......................................................................................................................39

Webinars ...................................................................................................................................40

Social Media .............................................................................................................................40

Looking Toward 2014 ..................................................................................................................41

Participating National and Federal Partners ..............................................................................41

CDC/National Center for Injury Prevention (NCIPC) ...........................................................41

The Administration on Community Living............................................................................41

The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) ..................................................41

The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) ...........................................................42

National Institute of Aging/NIH ............................................................................................42

National Eye Institute/NIH ...................................................................................................43

Fall Prevention Center of Excellence & American Society on Aging ..................................45


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Overview & Highlights

The 6th annual Falls Prevention Awareness Day (FPAD), sponsored by the National Council on Aging (NCOA) Falls Free® Initiative on September 22, 2013, was the largest yet, with 47

states and the District of Columbia participating. This summary is based on the annual

survey of the State Coalitions on Falls Prevention Workgroup and includes survey results from a majority of participating states. This survey estimates national reach and the number

and type of activities held by state and local coalitions on falls prevention and provides

insight into what states’ biggest successes and challenges were in their plans and activities.

The 2013 FPAD theme, Preventing Falls—One Step at a Time, was selected by the States’

Awareness and Advocacy Committee after careful deliberation of numerous suggestions from the field. The theme was intended to unite professionals, older adults, caregivers, and

family members in raising awareness and preventing falls.

In preparation for the celebration, NCOA’s Falls Prevention Awareness Day web page was

updated with new tools, resources, and initiatives submitted by states and local

communities; two member conference calls were hosted; and several webinars were presented.

On September 19, the U.S. Senate passed a resolution designating September 22, 2013 as National Falls Prevention Awareness Day. Sen. Nelson (D-FL), Chair of the Senate Special

Committee on Aging, introduced the resolution and was joined by Sen. Collins (R-ME), the

Committee's Ranking Member, Appropriations Chairwoman Sen. Mikulski (D-MD), and six additional cosponsors—a record number for the resolution this year.

Across the 38 states completing the survey, an estimated 2,076,041 individuals were reached during FPAD 2013 activities. Of those:

An estimated 17,351 older adults were physically screened for fall risks

Over 511,000 were reached through evidence-based programs

Over 1.5 million older adults, family caregivers, professionals, and policymakers were reached through advocacy events and education and awareness campaigns

We believe these figures are underestimates, as they do not account for tens of thousands reached through large print and media campaigns in most states. As part of that effort,

NCOA garnered millions of impressions through traditional and online media, websites, and

social media properties.

The available data is a good indicator for the overall progress and impact of FPAD 2013. The

reporting states are representative of their peers. Only 24% of states observed one day of activity, while 27% reported activities extending for an entire week and 30% observed Falls

Prevention Awareness for the entire month of September.



http://www.ncoa.org/improve-health/center-for-healthy-aging/falls-prevention/falls-free-initiative.html

http://www.ncoa.org/improve-health/center-for-healthy-aging/falls-prevention/falls-prevention-awareness.html

https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/113/sres248/text


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Awareness & Education

97% of reporting states organized awareness and education programs during FPAD 2013.

35% of states reported combining Falls Prevention with other observations such as Active

Aging Week, Senior Center Month, Assisted Living Week, and Aging Summits. States were innovative in their events, leveraging ongoing activities, new initiatives, and partnerships.

Examples include:

Minnesota partnered with the fire department and hospital trauma center as part of

falls preventions at a home and safety fair.

Rhode Island distributed 1,600 nightlights.

Missouri, Oregon, and Maine hosted flash mobs.

Hawaii distributed 5,000 flyers/bag stuffers at 11 Foodland Pharmacies on three

islands. The flyers included falls prevention tips and information about getting medications reviewed. Pharmacists then set appointments with older adults.

The Montgomery County, Maryland, Volunteer Fire Department held a Falls

Prevention Awareness event that included the Maryland State Fire Marshal, a County Council Member, a State Delegate, and a representative from Sens. Cardin’s and

Mikulski’s offices. Baltimore City held an event, and the Health Commission was in

attendance.

California reported a screening of The Falling Monologues, a conference on Aging in

Place, and a senior games event.

In Washington, Spokane Falls Free® hosted Preventing Falls One Step at a Time:

Research to Action with Teepa Snow as the keynote. More than 130 aging

professionals attended.

Arizona leveraged a medication disposal event to promote falls prevention.

Nevada listed FPAD activities on www.gethealthyclarkcounty.org, the Southern Nevada Health District community information site for chronic disease prevention

and health promotion.

Virginia leveraged Work Force Development initiatives to bring greater awareness to

falls prevention.

In North Carolina, a local TV network (WLOS) offered a live feed of falls prevention events, there was a dance party (Soiree!) to raise funds and awareness for the WNC

Fall Prevention Coalition, and members held a demo day with the Charlotte Bobcats NBA team.

Oklahoma hosted a Tai Chi demonstration at the Oklahoma State Fair on Senior Day

Evidence-Based Programs

77% of states said they promoted or kicked-off an evidence-based intervention as part of

FPAD 2013. Of those reporting, the majority of states launched A Matter of Balance, while

others promoted Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance, Otago, and Stepping On.

http://www.gethealthyclarkcounty.org/


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Other programs included:

Healthy Steps for Older Adults falls prevention program sponsored by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging

Strong Women and STEADI

Stepping On, Walk with Ease, Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program

Tai Chi for Fall Prevention, Tai Chi for Health (Lam program)

Bone Builders classes

Fall Risk Screenings

87% of reporting states held fall risk screenings as part of FPAD 2013—including individual screens of balance, medications, or vision—or held multi-factorial screenings. The majority of

states reported conducting balance assessments (78%) and multifactorial screens (56%).

Additional screens included vision, feet, blood pressure, bone density, glucose, hearing, fracture risk, and home safety.

Advocacy

66% of respondents reported advocacy initiatives during FPAD 2013, including Governor’s Proclamations (75% of those reporting yes) and local government proclamations (29%). 20%

of respondents reported meeting directly with elected/appointed officials. Examples include:

Ohio Gov. John Kasich, Ohio Department of Health Director Dr. Ted Wymyslo, Ohio Department of Aging Director Bonnie Kantor Burman, and Mitchell Bryant, Ohio Falls

Coalition hosted a news conference. Dr. Wymyslo held an in-person meeting with the leaders of Ohio’s professional associations to promote awareness and action.

In New York, Frank Floyd, MD, and Gail Goldberg (Tai Chi instructor) participated in a press event highlighting the use of the STEADI toolkit and referrals from primary care

providers to community-based falls prevention programs.

Pennsylvania hosted a legislative breakfast on September 24 with 10 members of the State House of Representatives, one member of the Senate, and one Senate

staff member. A local event was a local legislator's senior expo.

The Iowa governor issued a public proclamation, and the directors for Public Health and Aging gave presentations at an outdoor event to approximately 50 people. This

was followed by a Tai Chi demonstration in which the governor and lieutenant governor participated.

A keynote speaker for the Arizona events was Dr. Babak Nayeri from Arizona Health

Aging, Arizona Department of Health Services.

California presented before Alameda County and the City of Oakland Commission on

Aging Groups and worked with legislative aides who attend the advisory committee meetings to post a falls prevention poster on their websites.

Maine helped the national effort by advocating with U.S. Sens. Collins and King to sign the national resolution as a bipartisan effort.

The governor of Kentucky recorded a video PSA.


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Partnership Building

Nearly all respondents reported creative sponsorship and partner activities:

Ohio reached out to new partners such as the Bureau of Workers Compensation, Department of Developmental Disabilities, and the Retail Merchants Association.

They also launched the Ohio Department of Aging STEADY U program, and the Ohio Department of Health convened a meeting of statewide health care association

leaders, including the Ohio Medical Association, Ohio Osteopathic Association, Ohio

Academy of Family Physicians, and others to launch the CDC’s STEADI toolkit.

Montana, District of Columbia, Nevada, and other states partnered with universities

to train and engage students in FPAD activities.

Illinois engaged academic and community-based hospitals featuring multidisciplinary and multiple setting partnerships, including OT, PT, Nursing, Pharmacy, and other

departments and services in hospitals, home health, primary care, fitness, and volunteers.

For the Pennsylvania statewide legislative breakfast, Crozer Keystone Health System, the Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association, the

Pennsylvania Association of the American Occupational Therapy Association, and

Wyomissing Optometric Center covered all expenses.

The Wisconsin Office for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Ambulance Services, County Recycling Programs, County Recreational Departments, and Managed Care

Organizations all participated in FPAD activities.

Iowa reached out to continuing care facilities’ congregate meal sites and senior

centers. Another partner was EMC Insurance, whose Risk Improvement Representative was active in the coalition and helped with a webinar that provided

great information and claims data with pictures of fall risk areas.

CIMRO of Nebraska launched a website during September with falls prevention resources and training opportunities at http://cimronebraska.org/Falls.

North Carolina collaborated with the Charlotte Bobcats NBA team for a demo day.

Tennessee collaborated to create home safety stations at Lowe's home improvement

stores and provided education to older adults during the event.

The Brain Injury Association and New Jersey Hospital Trauma Association were new partners and local grocery stores sent dieticians to Project Healthy Bones classes.

Ms. Senior America New Jersey also spoke at an event.

In support of FPAD 2013, state and local coalitions secured creative partnerships and

sponsorships with a wide variety of partners. This list includes: hospital systems, local businesses (e.g. pharmacies, home improvement stores) and corporations (e.g. durable

medical equipment manufacturers), EMS and fire departments, trauma coordinators, county

health departments, radio stations and newspapers, a sheriff’s office, local mental health associations, retirement communities, home health agencies, brain injury/TBI groups,

schools of public health, law schools, and PT, OT, Nursing and Pharmacy students.

http://cimronebraska.org/Falls


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Many states developed strong collaborations with professional students and engaged PT,

OT, Nursing, and Pharmacy programs in their area for FPAD. 86% percent of reporting states engaged and trained professional students; most with multiple programs to support efforts.

Of those, 25 states worked with PT students and one with PT assistant students, 18 worked

with OT students, 18 worked with Pharmacy students, and 18 worked with Nursing. 14 states engaged other professional students from schools of ophthalmology, social work,

kinesiology, nutrition, psychology, and public health. Most states reported working with

students, examples include:

Massachusetts reported engaging pharmacy students to conduct medication reviews

for older adults for FPAD and answer questions about medication concerns/falls risks.

Fall risk screenings were conducted by PT students from the University of Maryland-Baltimore who performed the CDC balance tests. Notre Dame of Maryland Pharmacy

students conducted blood pressure screening, and OT students from Towson

University conducted fall risk screenings.

PT and OT students worked with professors to create fall videos that are on the

Kentucky website: www.nofallsorg.

Maine reported PT/OT students performed balance screenings, and nursing students

participated in their flash mob.

Minnesota nursing students participated in a Class Zero Matter of Balance workshop.

New Mexico hosted a multifactorial fall risk screening event. Coalition organizers

encouraged interprofessional collaboration to enhance students’ service learning experience. Pharmacy students were in charge of med checks; nursing in orthostatic

BP, OT prepared home safety display; PTs in charge of STEADI balance testing; all

promoted use of STEADI falls risk questionnaire and cross trained in each area of assessment.

A PT at the University of South Dakota collaborated with Health Service Administration students who provided education regarding the cost and prevalence

of falls and the OT department and students provided vision screening. PT students

conducted balance screenings and provided education on falls prevention.

http://www.nofallsorg/


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Arizona

Gov. Brewer recorded a PSA in support of FPAD, which has been posted on the Arizona Fall Prevention Coalition website: http://www.azstopfalls.org. They also created this infographic

based on the national FPAD infographic.

http://www.azstopfalls.org/


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California

California hosted a variety of events, including a three-day Fall Prevention Evaluation program; seniors walking with signs; a flash mob dance; a falls prevention center fair/open

house; Tai Chi, physical activity classes, healthy lunch, and parcourse walk; two radio

interviews; and an outdoor activity at local par course.

Photos have been posted to Smilebox:

http://secure.smilebox.com/ecom/openTheBox?sendevent=4d7a67774e6a6b304e6a52384d6a4d344f5441304d7a413d0d0a&sb=1&campaign=SboxAnncmnt&utm_source=Sbox

Anncmnt

Flash Mob Dance in Alameda County: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9_kPxaTRsGg

http://secure.smilebox.com/ecom/openTheBox?sendevent=4d7a67774e6a6b304e6a52384d6a4d344f5441304d7a413d0d0a&sb=1&campaign=SboxAnncmnt&utm_source=SboxAnncmnt



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9_kPxaTRsGg


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Colorado

Colorado celebrated Falls Prevention Awareness Week, September 22-28, 2013, by

promoting the incorporation of an evidence-based falls prevention program into clinical practices with this flyer offering educational presentations and webinars:

Why is falls prevention important? Injuries resulting from falls create a substantial health burden in Colorado, particularly for

adults ages 65 and older. Each year, an average of 549 Coloradans ages 65+ die from a

fall-related injury. Fall-related hospitalization costs alone total more than $263 million annually. The fear of falling is a real concern for older adults and can limit their interest and

ability to be active in their homes and in the community. A majority of hospitalized fall

victims are transferred to short-term care or skilled nursing facilities instead of returning to their homes.

By promoting the implementation of evidenced-based fall prevention programs statewide, Colorado can decrease the rate of fall-related hospitalizations among older adults by 10

percent, preventing more than 10,000 hospitalized falls annually. You play an important role

in caring for older adults, and you can help reduce these devastating injuries.

What can you do to prevent falls? Adopt the STEADI Toolkit in your Practice

A study released in the New England Journal of Medicine saw a 10% reduction of older adult

falls in targeted communities through the implementation of a multifaceted community based falls reduction program involving medical groups and the community.

The STEADI (Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths & Injuries) Tool Kit, created by the

CDC, is a multifaceted community based

falls reduction program helping physicians assess fall risk and make referrals to

physical therapy or community programs

through the Fall Prevention Network or local Area Agencies on Aging. The STEADI

Tool Kit contains resources and tools that

will help make fall prevention an integral part of your clinical practice.

What is your next step?

Photos from Boulder County FPAD

event and (far right) the Fort Collins

FPAD program featured a kick line like

the Rockettes showing how seniors

are standing up to falls.

http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa0801748

http://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/Falls/steadi/about.html

http://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/Falls/steadi/about.html

http://www.fallpreventionnetwork.com/

http://www.colorado.gov/cs/Satellite?blobcol=urldata&blobheadername1=Content-Disposition&blobheadername2=Content-Type&blobheadervalue1=inline%3B+filename%3D%22TripleAList.pdf%22&blobheadervalue2=application%2Fpdf&blobkey=id&blobtable=MungoBlobs&blobwhere=1


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District of Columbia

The DC Falls Prevention Coalition set up fall screening clinics in five of eight city wards, hosted by the city’s Wellness Centers. During the day, 198 older adults were screened for

medications, vision, blood pressure, strength, and the TUG. Screeners included graduate PT

students from George Washington University and Walmart pharmacists. Participants’ assessments were reviewed by a health care provider (a George Washington Medical Center

physician or one of two home care nurses) to make recommendations. Over lunch, there

was a home safety presentation by Louis Tenenbaum. Falls risk screening event in one of five DC wards at the Hattie Holmes Wellness Center


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Reikan Lin, Florida Department of Health, Injury Prevention

Program; Liliana Herrera, Your Aging Resource Center, Area Agency

on Aging, Palm Beach/Treasure Coast; Lonnie Parizek, The Ounce of

Prevention Fund of Florida; Carolyn Sithong, MS, OTR/L, SCEM,

CAPS, Home for Life Consulting and Design; Mark Brimer, PhD, PT,

Florida Fall Prevention and Rehabilitation

Florida

In recognition of National Falls Prevention Awareness Day on

September 22, 2013, the Florida

Department of Health, Injury Prevention Program (IPP), and the

Florida Department of Elder Affairs,

Division of Statewide Community-Based Services (DOEA) hosted the

Fifth Annual Statewide Older Adult

Falls Prevention Webcast on September 4, 2013. Five expert

speakers discussed a variety of falls

prevention related topics.

The 2013 webcast improved on its

predecessors by enhancing documentation of participant

numbers and feedback, exploring

new technologies to increase reach, and collaborating with partners to market the event. The webcast can be viewed at the

Florida Department of Health YouTube channel. Each speaker can be accessed separately:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWTITuaDYCI&feature=share&list=PLNRjiBjDQnma4aWV9IXRxIeGvxOSKDcCr

The webcast recorded 296 registrants, which did not include multiple viewers at one screen. Since posting on YouTube, an additional 1,192 views were recorded for the 7 clips of the

webcast.

Also, AOTA reported that an OT organized a falls prevention workshop at the Alachua County

Senior Center. It was attended by about 30-35 individuals. A PT presented statistics on falls

and talked about exercise. A pharmacist presented on medications, and the OT presented

on environmental and behavior changes for falls prevention with an emphasis on low vision. Presentations were approximately 20 minutes, and there were 30 minutes between each for

participants to visit stations set up around the room (fall risk assessment, Elder Options,

Choices, YMCA, snacks, blood pressure screen, and medication review).




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Hawaii

Hawaii hosted falls prevention activities across the major islands. On Oahu, a Tai Chi for Fall Prevention activity was held at sunrise. Master Trainer Ileina Ferrier led the Tai Chi Ohana.


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The health fair at Palos Community Hospital, Palos Heights, IL.

Occupational therapy students at the University of Illinois at Chicago

work on their Matter of Balance Program Launch, Development &

Evaluation Assignment.

Illinois

Illinois-based health care providers engaged in a variety of Falls

Prevention Awareness Day activities.

The 12-station health fair at Palos Community Hospital in Palos Heights

is a terrific example of the events

that took place in Illinois to prevent falls in the state.

Led by occupational therapist Laurie Dylla, MS, OTR/L, the health

fair utilized the expertise of diverse

health care providers, including physical therapy and occupational

therapy students, pharmacists, and

nurses. Balance, vision, blood pressure and footwear assessments

were provided to participants, as

were medication reviews.

Assessment results were provided in

a folder, along with handouts from the CDC’s STEADI tool. Participants

were encouraged to share the

findings with their primary care physician. The Tai Chi

demonstration drew a crowd, and

the home safety product display and catalogue giveaway were

popular. Matter of Balance was promoted at the health fair, and the event proved to be an

important opportunity for interdisciplinary collaboration.

In Chicago, FPAD activities took place at both Rush University Medical Center and the

University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). At Rush, the Director of Physical Therapy was the featured speaker at the primary FPAD event. At UIC, a lecture on evidence-based falls

prevention interventions delivered to occupational therapy students was timed to occur

close to FPAD. Those students were then introduced to the Matter of Balance Program

Launch, Development & Evaluation Assignment. The assignment allows students to build upon their knowledge of occupational therapy’s role in fall prevention to create a proposal to

implement and evaluate Matter of Balance.


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The Area 13 Agency on Aging created this placemat for its Meals on

Wheels clients and a Healthy State of Mind event sponsored with

the Dubois County Public Health Partnership.

Indiana

Indiana’s aging services network observed FPAD in conjunction with

Safe at Home, the statewide event

surrounding falls prevention. Many activities and events were hosted by

the 16 Indiana AAAs/ADRCs.

Through CICOA Aging & In-Home

Solutions, Indiana's largest Area

Agency on Aging, in observance of FPAD on Saturday, September 21,

teams of community volunteers

gave 17 homes of older adults living in the Mapleton-Fall Creek

area the Safe At Home treatment. Safe At Home events also were sponsored by REAL

Services (South Bend) and Generations (Vincennes). More than 200 volunteers participated by installing handrails and grab bars, building a ramp, and completing yard work and

cleanup projects. Students from the OT program at Brown Mackie College also provided falls

prevention assessments for the seniors.

Safe At Home not only helps older homeowners address safety issues in their homes, but

also helps raise awareness of falls prevention and provides an opportunity for community volunteers to learn more about CICOA’s mission. Safe At Home received more media

attention this year this, thanks in part to the support of Unique Home Solutions and

American Senior Communities.

Safe at Home websites and other links:

http://www.cicoa.org/events/safe-at-home.html http://www.cicoa.org/safe-at-home-program/falls-prevention.html

YouTube video from Indy Style: http://youtu.be/jiKKM7lOX-E

CICOA’s Facebook page with photos from Safe At Home on Sept. 22:

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153262901415640.107374183

4.170864480639&type=3

Area 10 Agency on Aging Safe at Home: www.area10agency.org/safeathome

(impressive photo gallery)

Area 2 Agency on Aging (Real Services, i.e., SOUTH BEND) Safe at

Home:www.realservicesinc.com/Volunteer/PhotoGalleries/SAH2012/SAH.html

Area 14 Agency on Aging: Received a grant to purchase the Arthritis Walk with Ease

Starter Kit (self-paced 6-week walking program) from Floyd Memorial Hospital

Foundation, healthier community initiative hosted at three meal sites.

Area 13 Agency on Aging: In support of FPAD, promoted the availability of

programming, including A Matter of Balance (rotated through the counties, three times weekly); Enhanced Fitness (2-3 times a week in multiple counties); and Zumba

Gold (lower impact Zumba).

http://www.in.gov/fssa/files/AAA_Map_Edited_April_11_2012.pdf

http://www.cicoa.org/events/safe-at-home.html

http://www.cicoa.org/safe-at-home-program/falls-prevention.html

http://youtu.be/jiKKM7lOX-E

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153262901415640.1073741834.170864480639&type=3

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153262901415640.1073741834.170864480639&type=3

http://www.area10agency.org/safeathome

http://www.realservicesinc.com/Volunteer/PhotoGalleries/SAH2012/SAH.html


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On Monday, September 23, Gov. Terry Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim

Reynolds joined members of the Iowa Fall Prevention Coalition in a

Tai Chi exercise demonstration near the Iowa capitol building shortly

after Branstad signed a "Fall Prevention Day" proclamation.

Iowa

On Tuesday, September 24, 2013, the St. Ambrose University Physical Therapy

Department, Center for Activity Seniors,

and Milestones Area Agency on Aging in Davenport, IA sponsored a National

Falls Prevention Awareness Day event.

The day was built around the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths and

Injuries (STEADI) tool.

Participants completed a questionnaire

on their fall risk factors, discussed the results with physical therapists and

physical therapy students, consulted

with an occupational therapist about home modifications, learned about

local exercise programs, had their balance and mobility assessed, discussed their

medications with a pharmacist, and finally completed a debriefing session with physical therapists and physical therapy students who discussed the recommendations of all the

professionals. Over 60 individuals took part in the event. Fourteen local physical therapists

and 22 physical therapy students from St. Ambrose University volunteered during this event.

Four different workshops provided participants with helpful information and instruction on

how to live a falls free lifestyle. The workshops consisted of: 1) Balance & Mobility Testing, 2) Pharmacy Screenings that included blood pressure checks, medication review, and

educational information, 3) Vision & Home Modifications information and 4) Exercise &

Physical Activities stations demonstrating yoga, Tai Chi, and Zumba.


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Maine

On September 24, 2013, people walking through Monument Square in Portland were surprised to see people doing exercises in chairs.

The flash mob was organized by the Southern Maine Area Agency on Aging and their A Matter of Balance staff. The event was one of the activities held at the start of fall to raise

awareness about the issue of falls in older adults. U.S. Sens. Collins and King both

supported the U.S. Senate Resolution, and Gov. LePage signed a letter showing his support.

Also, a low-vision adaptation of A Matter of Balance was recently publicized through the

American Foundation for the Blind's website. Read more: A Matter of Balance: National Program Helps Overcome Fear of Falling

http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0016TFDzEvc7fQ8WNddG6ZdcR4CjrPF6QXYc_qe5af5TtHQ3OriNGQGjUs6ueUEHsJh7zfwQ9wRgN4LXCPuo-tbKGfqNRMf-F5i98XKFmWlJvuw-Q8sDsUHnrih4AClWNuZy63dGWroidmE475_RJRc0KAfp_RTb0hAFGkuszN-gYWYIsX5dsU4Ae2gOnDnqy9sTOrncSG3x9MTYhp0JYGpr_KWuW_z-lkT4h0B9R8ihhQ=&c=LQwQJrPIQL7fEwnRHSsvR2XDs9DsiH9GlxxFc_XV40fLa81QIr7ATQ==&ch=PYS4LrxuI2rSGGtQ3BwGbNqLqJOIXb1mhPDGtgjkMcZuXJFbzyuRUQ==


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Maryland

On Sunday, September 22, 2013, the Baltimore County Department of Aging (BCDA) hosted a 5KRun/Walk and 1 Mile Walk. The BCDA Falls Prevention Coalition hosted a Falls

Prevention Screening that was multidisciplinary—pharmacy students from Notre Dame of

Maryland University conducted blood pressure, OT students from Towson University did a fall risk questionnaire, OTA students from Community College of Baltimore County assisted, and

PT students from University of Maryland Baltimore conducted balance screenings. 18 PT

students from UMB PTRS took part in the event. The team performed the CDC STEADI tests (TUG, 30-Second Chair Stand, and 4-Stage Balance Test) on 38 adults and identified 10

individuals at high risk for falls (26%).


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Massachusetts

Massachusetts held an FPAD event in the state capitol building, featuring a

Tai Chi demonstration that was a big

hit.

Coalition members really stepped up,

donating resources, items, and services as individuals or from the

organizations they represent, including

pedometers to promote staying active from BCBS; flashlights with the

coalition logo donated privately by a

coalition member; healthy food for the FPAD event from Senior Whole Health;

and the fee for using event space at

the state house by the Massachusetts Senior Care Association. The participation of volunteer pharmacy students was arranged by a coalition member from the Massachusetts

College of Pharmacy, vision screenings were arranged through a coalition member affiliated

with Boston University and other coalition members from the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, and the Tai Chi demonstration was led by instructor Dan Kleiman from

Brookline Tai Chi, who is also a coalition member.

Two state senators participated this year in Falls Prevention Awareness Day: Sen. Richard

Moore (Senate President Pro Tempore) and Sen. Patricia Jehlen (Senate Chair, Joint

Committee on Elder Affairs). Both of these legislators have been solid supporters of the coalition and efforts to promote older adult falls prevention. Sen. Moore was awarded a

Certificate of Appreciation at last year’s FPAD event.


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Missouri

The Jefferson City Senior Center hosted a flash mob at the Capital Mall for FPAD. The video has been posted on YouTube: http://youtu.be/b2UZyTB2-P0 or

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2UZyTB2-P0&feature=c4-

overview&list=UU1g4aYxUJuic1rRDnyxnU_A

Some of the leading champions were interviewed:

http://www.news-medical.net/news/20130921/Falls-can-cause-problems-but-older-adults-can-still-maintain-an-active-quality-of-life.aspx

In addition, several e-cards were available online from the state Falls Free® coalition:

http://youtu.be/b2UZyTB2-P0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2UZyTB2-P0&feature=c4-overview&list=UU1g4aYxUJuic1rRDnyxnU_A

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2UZyTB2-P0&feature=c4-overview&list=UU1g4aYxUJuic1rRDnyxnU_A




22

Montana

Montana celebrated FPAD 2013 on Friday, September 20, beginning with a letter of proclamation from Gov. Bullock.

The University of Montana’s School of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science partnered with the Montana chapter of

the American Physical Therapy Association to paid area PT

clinicians with DPT students to provide STEADI fall risk

screenings at nine sites around western Montana. Aging

service providers, including our local AAA Missoula Aging

Services and Missoula’s Senior Center opened their facilities and programs. A total of 107 older adults were screened, 32

referred to evidence-based falls prevention programs, and 19

referred to their primary care providers to consider consultation with a physical therapist.

Two Stepping On classes were filled to capacity with a waiting list for the winter class sessions. Participants are now being

referred to the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program and/or

Walk with Ease as Stepping On winds down and participants wish to continue with a group evidence-based activity

program. During the same week, two large falls prevention

seminars were held: one at Grizzly Peak Retirement for their residents and one for the Foster Grandparents program for

those engaged older adult volunteers. UM’s student

gerontology society also distributed CDC educational pamphlets in the Missoula area.

All in all, an estimated 500 older adults were directly impacted by FPAD 2013 in Montana. Who knows what FPAD

2014 will bring!


23

SAGE Eldercare, located at 290 Broad Street in

Summit, offered a variety of exercise classes beneficial

in preventing falls. The organization offered a free

workshop to the public with screenings for nutrition,

blood pressure, balance assessments, and medication

reviews will be offered, in addition to advice about fall

prevention, a comprehensive display of home assistive

and safety devices, and a Tai Chi demonstration.

New Jersey

FPAD activities took place on September 23, 2013, on the Atlantic City Boardwalk in front

of Convention Hall. Volunteer PTs were part of

a balance screening in conjunction with medication review, vision check, home safety

check, osteoporosis screening, blood pressure

check, and many other tables with information pertinent for older adults.

The PTs screened 51 individuals and had case managers from a local provider to

provide resources for those needing follow-

up. Screening consisted of the TUG, Single Limb Stance, and 5 Times Sit to Stand.

Participants were given handouts about PT

and simple falls prevention exercises and a home safety checklist.

More hospitals were involved this year, including Newark Beth Israel and Inspira Health Care System.

RWJ Hamilton Wellness center held an event attended by 135 people. Skip Cimino is the CEO and is receiving the

Governor’s proclamation from the NJ Department of Human Services Deputy Commissioner Lowell Arye.

http://uploads.thealternativepress.com/uploads/photos/1f/best_09335c1ab679f48d3018_exercise_3.jpg


24

Nevada

Nevada provided fall risk assessments using the STEADI, training professional students to provide the assessments. At-risk older adults were referred to providers or Stepping On

classes in the community. By referral, they easily filled four Stepping On programs in four

different locations in October 2013, including the one below. Nevada also worked with assisted living communities in the Las Vegas area, reaching a new target audience.


25

New Mexico

An outstanding, diverse group of over-65 volunteers including students of PT/PTA, OT/OTA, Pharmacy, Nursing, and Nutrition worked with the New Mexico Adult Fall Prevention

Coalition, part of the Falls Free® Initiative, in an event for FPAD. This event was a

multifactorial fall risk screening, and coalition organizers encouraged interprofessional collaboration to enhance students’ service learning experience.

On September 16, at the New Mexico State Fair during Senior Appreciation Day, we provided education and used the CDC STEADI self-administered questionnaire. Over 150 people were

screened using the CDC STEADI tools. Each person screened received a copy of the STEADI

Fall Risk Checklist and Questionnaire to take home and review with their health care practitioners.

This is the fourth year the coalition has participated in the Senior Appreciation Day at the State Fair in honor of FPAD. Each year, we have gotten bigger and more organized. In

addition to balance testing, more than 100 adults participated in medication reviews and 50

were screened for postural hypotension.


26

New York

In 2012, New York promoted a number of very effective PSAs, and in 2013 they leveraged a number of news channels and media outlets. The Broome County Department of Health

coordinated a press event at United Health Services—the first health system to start

implementing STEADI. The news coverage linked to below featured interviews with the “champion” doctor, a Tai Chi instructor, and program participants.

YNN http://binghamton.ynn.com/content/search/697747/uhs-and-broome-county-pilot-fall-

prevention-plan/

WICZ Fox 40

http://www.wicz.com/news2005/viewarticle.asp?a=29834

http://www.wicz.com/news/video.asp?video=9%2D24%2D13falls%2Eflv&zone=News

News Channel 34

http://www.newschannel34.com/news/local/story/UHS-Fall-Prevention-Program/U2x4fmQIS0-KYgroLWmE_A.cspx

WBNG 12 Action News http://www.wbng.com/news/local/Keeping-Seniors-from-Taking-a-Fall-225105702.html

http://binghamton.ynn.com/content/search/697747/uhs-and-broome-county-pilot-fall-prevention-plan/

http://binghamton.ynn.com/content/search/697747/uhs-and-broome-county-pilot-fall-prevention-plan/

http://www.wicz.com/news2005/viewarticle.asp?a=29834

http://www.wicz.com/news/video.asp?video=9%2D24%2D13falls%2Eflv&zone=News



http://www.wbng.com/news/local/Keeping-Seniors-from-Taking-a-Fall-225105702.html


27

North Carolina

Local and regional falls prevention coalitions from around the state hosted a variety of falls prevention screenings and events to observe Falls Prevention Awareness Week. Over 400

older adults were screened for falls risks and then referred to appropriate services.

An article on Otago through the UNC School of Medicine increased visibility for the program

both in the state and beyond; the article also resulted in a local TV station featuring the

program.

Falls Prevention—One Step at a Time Event, Greensboro, NC

Hearing screening and orthostatic blood pressure screening at Eastern NC FP Fair, Greenville, NC


28

North Dakota

The Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, ND, wanted to be part of Falls Prevention Day. The media department created large foam-board posters using the cover of the STEADI brochure with

dates, locations, and times of offered screenings. The event was advertised in the local

newspaper, on the website, and throughout the hospital.

A falls prevention PowerPoint presentation and educational session was given. Participants

then completed the STEADI self-assessment and the three balance/strength tests.

Two hospital PTs instructed the medical fitness specialists, and PT students from the

University of North Dakota who were on their clinicals in the TUG, 30 Second Chair Rise Test, and the 4 Stage Balance Test. Together, they screened approximately 25 people at Altru

Medical Fitness Center and 25 people at the Grand Forks Senior Center on two separate

dates.

PT students: perform a 30 Second Chair Rise test with a participant, conduct the TUG and review

the results at the Altru Medical Fitness Center


29

Ohio

The Ohio Departments of Aging and Health jointly distributed a toolkit for Falls Prevention Awareness Day

that included:

Governor's Proclamation

Ohio Falls Data Sheet

Local News Release

Intervention Fact Sheets: o Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance Fact

Sheet

o Matter of Balance Fact Sheet o Home Modifications Fact Sheet

o CDC’s STEADI Tool Kit

In addition, the director of the Ohio Department of Health, Dr. Ted Wymyslo, held an in-

person meeting with the leaders of Ohio’s professional associations, the OSMA, family

physicians, osteopaths, and others and created a video to introduce and support the STEADI toolkit to promote FPAD: http://www.healthy.ohio.gov/vipp/falls/STEADI.aspx

Gov. Kasich and ODA/state initiative to promote falls among older adults

http://www.healthy.ohio.gov/vipp/oafpc/fallsawareness.aspx

http://www.healthy.ohio.gov/vipp/falls/STEADI.aspx


30

Oregon

Oregon sponsored a flash mob for FPAD. There were about 100 participants, perfect weather, no incidents, and good local news coverage. Watch it on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lMG-hC_x11Q

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMJU3ycCXUM (with seated participants)

In addition, the Multnomah County Commissioner gave some remarks at the council meeting and participated in a TCMBB demo:

http://multnomah.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=3f18bc1b-75e8-1031-b11f-

4c2dfb660b07.

In a nice pairing of Senior Center Month and Falls Prevention Proclamations, Oregon also

offered falls prevention presentations, risk screenings, and Tai Chi Moving for Better for Balance exercises all month at senior centers.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lMG-hC_x11Q

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMJU3ycCXUM

http://multnomah.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=3f18bc1b-75e8-1031-b11f-4c2dfb660b07

http://multnomah.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?publish_id=3f18bc1b-75e8-1031-b11f-4c2dfb660b07


31

Carol Thornton, DPH and Rep. Farry

Rep. Farry and Rep. Matthew Baker

Heidi Sensenig, OD, MS

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania hosted a Falls Prevention Breakfast for state legislators with the

Governor’s Proclamation as the call to

action. They shared with the members four maps showing older adult population by

legislative district, as well as a map of

hospitalizations for falls among older adults by county.

The program agenda included networking

time and the following speakers on falls:

Secretary Wolf (introduced by Tomas Aguilar)

Secretary Duke

Crozer Keystone Health System—Kathy Lehman

Pennsylvania Physical Therapy Association—Judy Bowman, PT, Legislative Committee Chairperson

Pennsylvania Occupational Therapy Association—Dr. Kerri Golden

ICPG—Dr. Heidi Sensenig, OD and ICPG Falls Free workgroup representative

The statewide legislative breakfast was supported by Crozer Keystone Health System, the

Pennsylvania Physical Therapy Association, Pennsylvania Occupational Therapy Association,

and Wyomissing Optometric Center. Attendees included 10 members of the state House of Representatives, one member of the Senate, and one Senate staff member.


32

Tennessee

Hamilton County celebrated FPAD with an event at Lowe’s. The event included a press conference, A Matter of Balance exercise demo, home safety stations created by UTC

students and faculty, sign-ups for balance screenings, assistive device consultations, older

adult community resource guides, and more. This was a partnership between the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department, UTC health profession students and

faculty, Siskin Rehab, Life Care Center of Hixson, Area Agency on Aging, Home Builders

Association, and Hixson Lowe’s.

See photos from the event here: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Chattanooga-Hamilton-

County-Health-Department/184971394868618

25 UTC health profession students and faculty members participated in the Falls Prevention

Awareness Day event at Lowe’s. This article describes the interprofessional grant making that possible: http://blog.utc.edu/news/2013/09/utc-health-profession-students-raise-falls-

awareness-in-the-community/

Lowes in-store event on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MpfKI6wujFo

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Chattanooga-Hamilton-County-Health-Department/184971394868618

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Chattanooga-Hamilton-County-Health-Department/184971394868618

http://blog.utc.edu/news/2013/09/utc-health-profession-students-raise-falls-awareness-in-the-community/

http://blog.utc.edu/news/2013/09/utc-health-profession-students-raise-falls-awareness-in-the-community/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MpfKI6wujFo


33

Texas

Texas had a number of activities, but one particularly active event combined the Flu + You campaign with Falls Prevention Awareness Week. NCOA facilitates both activities and was

represented by Ellen Schneider, UNC, as she promoted both falls prevention and flu

vaccination with local politicians and over 300 attending seniors.

Texas also partnered with Peterson Health Care in Kerrville and Allied Wellness Centers in

New Braunfels and Seguin, which provided lunch for community lectures. Across the state,

they partnered with county paramedics and a senior center fitness instructor in prevention

day activities and worked with several faith community nurse programs to reach senior groups at faith communities and schedule medication screenings.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/103833888@N06/10024266424/in/set-72157636062708085


http://www.flickr.com/photos/103833888@N06/sets/72157636062708085/





34

Teepa Snow and Maryann Wilson

senior fitness program ‘Sit & Be Fit’

The Washington State Fall Prevention Coalition partnered with AARP

to bring fall prevention information to 300 women over age 50 who

participated in two Decide, Create, Share events in Lacey and

Spokane, WA. Women who came together to discuss long term care

solutions, also got a taste of fall prevention tips, planning and

practiced exercises to improve strength and balance.

The Northwest Regional Council and other partners presented a symposium entitled “A Community Approach to Fall

Prevention.” Presentations on pharmacology and physiology of falling were highlights of the day along with establishing

community programs with EMS providers. Over 100 attendees participated.

Washington

Spokane Falls Free® hosted Preventing Falls One Step at a Time:

Research to Action with Teepa Snow

as the keynote. It was attended by 130 aging stakeholder professionals,

including caregivers, physical

therapists, pharmacists, occupational therapists, acute care therapists, and

aging community administrators.

Attendees also created SMART goals for falls prevention next steps.

Coalition members are following up

and providing technical assistance to help partners meet and exceed

goals.

The University of Washington, Department Of Rehabilitation

Medicine, enlisted the support of PT, OT, and Pharmacy

students along with preceptors, to participate in multi-factorial screening of 215 people on five different

occasions.

Students gained experience in providing education and risk

screening for older adults, and the seniors enjoyed talking

and working with the students. The risk screening did flag some high-risk attendees, and they were encouraged to see

their primary care provider.


35

Wisconsin

On September 24, WLUK Fox 11 Morning Show broadcast three segments highlighting Falls Prevention Awareness Month. It featured three facilitators (Dr. Donarski, Edith Barth, and

Jacque Steeno) and the Green Bay Fire Department (Lt Nick Craig). Watch them here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43_3fQBTeKo http://www.fox11online.com/good-day-wi/preventing-falls-inside-the-home

Two screening events were held in September to increase awareness of the risks associated with falls and to provide local resources for reducing falls. Resources from CDC’s STEADI

Toolkit were used by the health care providers at various screening stations. Nearly 40

people took part in screenings for balance, orthostatic blood pressure, vision, osteoporosis risk, and medication review. Information about the Eau Claire County Medication Take Back

Program, vision and hearing impairment resources, and Stepping On falls prevention

program also was highlighted.

Another screening event received some media attention about balance screening for fal l risk

from CVTC communications specialist Mark Gunderman. A story featuring the PTA students ran in the Leader Telegram on September 22:

http://www.leadertelegram.com/news/daily_updates/article_c548032a-2231-11e3-9f83-

0019bb2963f4.html

Chippewa Valley Technical College Physical Therapist Assistant program

student Annie Burgess keeps time while

Fred Marick stands and sits as many times as he can in 30 seconds as part of a

balance screening test at the L.E. Phillips

Senior Center in Eau Claire Tuesday. CVTC and other community organizations

partnered with the Eau Claire County Aging

and Disabilities Resource Center for a

Falls Prevention Screening event as part of Falls Prevention Month.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43_3fQBTeKo

http://www.fox11online.com/good-day-wi/preventing-falls-inside-the-home

http://www.leadertelegram.com/news/daily_updates/article_c548032a-2231-11e3-9f83-0019bb2963f4.html

http://www.leadertelegram.com/news/daily_updates/article_c548032a-2231-11e3-9f83-0019bb2963f4.html

http://www.leadertelegram.com/news/daily_updates/article_c548032a-2231-11e3-9f83-0019bb2963f4.html?mode=image&photo=0


36

What Did We Learn?

To assist in planning for 2014, we asked states to identify key challenges, barriers, and successes related to the 6th National Falls Prevention Awareness Day, as well as needs for

2014.

Challenges/Barriers

Colorado held a Matter of Balance class at an assisted living facility and found the variety of health issues and diagnoses challenging. In the future, they will do

participant screening prior to holding a class at assisted living.

Florida reported time was the most common challenge. September is just after some

organizations’ fiscal year begins, materials (CDC STEADI toolkits) were unavailable, and they found too many events scheduled already.

Illinois found it challenging to manage the flow of participants at health fairs.

Attendees typically arrived early and crowded the stations, particularly the balance stations.

Iowa and Virginia found it challenging to get falls prevention on their governors’ agendas; starting early was essential. Similarly, New York reported a challenge to

garner support from high-level Department of Health and state officials (governor,

commissioner, etc.).

Massachusetts noted an ongoing challenge to conduct its event with no dedicated

funding. Great credit goes to some coalition members who really stepped up to the

plate offering their time and resources. Certain members of the coalition approached a local company that was regarded as “elder friendly” to donate healthy

refreshments, but were turned down. There’s a need to find more local companies

willing to donate appropriate items for senior-related events like FPAD.

New Jersey found it challenging to collect feedback from partners and will seek to

build it into the planning and communication for 2014.

Pennsylvania noted Child Passenger Safety Week overlapped with FPAD, making

competing outreach injury prevention issues challenging.

Rhode Island underestimated the number of nightlights to meet demand.

Success

Texas noted an opportunity to educate the future of health care and community supports. Partnerships with the hospital system and Safe Communities Fort Worth

Falls Task Force created opportunities to have medical providers learn ways to

address falls prevention efforts, as well as change systems of care to routinely address falls in primary care settings.

Illinois found that having credible health care providers (e.g., physical therapists and occupational therapists) who could speak to fall risk factors, the importance of

exercise, and other evidence-based tips on falls prevention important to the success

of FPAD activities. These speakers raised awareness among community-dwelling older adults and empowered them to take action to reduce their chances of falling.


37

A daylong seminar at the Queens Hospital Conference Center on Oahu, Hawaii, was well attended, and enjoyment and response was greater than anticipated. All of the

seniors and professionals expressed great enthusiasm with the speakers and

presentations

In Rhode Island, two nurse care managers were interviewed on Senior Journal TV,

which reached up to 500,000 viewers statewide.

Massachusetts held a Tai Chi demonstration at its State House where legislators could also participate. One highlight before this included an older adult speaker,

Natalie Hershon, who was recently trained as an instructor in “Tai Chi for Healthy Aging” and will be teaching older adults at her local senior center. Her promotion of

the practice of Tai Chi and the benefits it had brought to her life were very inspiring.

Older adults in the audience were quite captivated by her story and her personal endorsement of Tai Chi.

Montana noted that requesting a proclamation from its governor whose predecessor

would not do proclamations forced a reassessment of the issue.

New Mexico found value in students participating in interprofessional collaboration

and understanding of multifactorial falls prevention to enhance their service learning experience.

A local health department intern in Utah did an educational campaign and was able

to evaluate the impact of the activities and get more buy-in from their local senior centers for the Stepping On program.

A falls prevention checklist and educational materials were distributed to Meals on Wheels drivers in North Carolina who go into the homes of seniors. A large number

were educated with information on how to provide resources.

In California, the City of Cloverdale sponsored magnetic signs on EMT providers’ vehicles in the county. They also had digital billboard at a Honda dealership off of

Highway 101.

South Dakota noted a key success was building a relationship with senior centers.

The Texas PT and OT State Associations helped disseminate information and resources across the state. Texas also partnered with county EMT to promote

awareness.

In Utah, Intermountain Healthcare helped to promote falls prevention internally to their staff, which was new this year. The state also created a Facebook page for its

violence and injury prevention program and posted NCOA’s 6 Steps to Prevent a Fall

infographic on it for FPAD.

Wisconsin said multiple local coalitions reported making new partnerships with their

local hospitals. Even though the process was difficult, many new hospitals are now members of both our local coalitions as well as their state coalition.

Nevada found its press release generated media coverage for the first time regarding the risks of falls for seniors.

One Illinois OTR framed the health fair event sponsored at her community-based

hospital around the STEADI materials starting with the STAY INDEPENDENT brochure (self-assessment fall risk) and the Postural Hypotension, Home Safety Checklist, TUG.


38

Future Needs

We asked states to identify 2014 needs, and several noted the need for funding to expand

their current efforts. Specific requests included a need for:

Dementia care tools, resources directed to Home Care & Hospice Association

members, a laminated sheet of the Six Steps to Prevent a Fall, handouts on how to get up safely from a fall, and the updated cost of a fall

Higher quality pamphlets from a printer. If CDC could go back to providing the

pamphlets, this event would have enjoyed better “take away” value.

CDC making more materials available.

The STEADI online webinar is informative, but does not really help people get set up to offer STEADI. Modifications might be considered beneficial. Also, pamphlets

without verbiage (pictures only) would extend our reach.

A new logo for each year would be helpful as we create t-shirts for our events and

want to have a new logo for it.

More materials to support the theme for the year. Tools for estimating reach (via media, advocacy, etc.).

Allow us to add our own logo along with NCOA next year to infographic.

More impactful giveaways that could be sponsored.

Up-to-date data and better access to BRFSS and WISQARS. Maybe a tutorial or links to the latest national/state data. A listing of partnerships would be helpful.

A screening tool/brochure specifically for fear of falling would be useful. Fall History and Action and changing “fall-ty behaviors” into handout or brochure format would be

useful.

Guidance materials for physician and health provider participants, posters, DVD PowerPoint presentation on falls prevention and perhaps a provider tool so the

awareness can spread to offices and clinics and hospitals.

One responder noted we would really like to see CDC or NCOA work with national

partners and retailers like Home Depot or others to establish falls prevention campaigns as well as national media outlets and programs such as the Katie Couric

program, the View, or Ellen to help get the word out through national means rather

than depending only on local media. If the national partners and media got involved it

could really take the campaign to a much higher level perhaps even fundraising! Make it a national issue.

Florida noted member organizations are looking to expand their activities into other counties, improve on attendance and a commitment at the state level, the Injury

Prevention Program will continue to use current technologies and social media to

improve its resources, including the annual webcast.


39

National Efforts

The momentum and impact of FPAD has grown exponentially from the first national FPAD

celebration in 2008 when 22 states began

hosting activities. NCOA made a commitment to support states’ efforts and began housing state

and local FPAD tools and resources on its

dedicated web page www.ncoa.org/FPAD.

Website Metrics

For 2013, the volume of website traffic to

NCOA’s Falls Prevention resources between

May and September attests to their popularity:

Falls Prevention Awareness Day (www.ncoa.org/FPAD): 28,061 views

Falls Prevention (www.ncoa.org/FallsPrevention): 15,227

views

Take Control of Your Health: 6 Steps to Prevent a Fall

(www.ncoa.org/6StepstoPreventaFall):

11,385 views

Falls Prevention Awareness Day Media

Toolkit (http://www.ncoa.org/improve-health/center-for-healthy-aging/falls-

prevention/falls-prevention-awareness-

1.html): 10,445 views

Media Coverage

The NCOA/Falls Free® national media message

was released on September 20 and

immediately garnered 30,739 headline impressions as reported by the BusinessWire

NewsTrak Report.

http://www.ncoa.org/FPAD

http://www.ncoa.org/FPAD

http://www.ncoa.org/FallsPrevention

http://www.ncoa.org/6StepstoPreventaFall

http://www.ncoa.org/improve-health/center-for-healthy-aging/falls-prevention/falls-prevention-awareness-1.html





40

Webinars

NCOA hosted a preparatory webinar on August 22 Maximizing Your Influence for Fall

Prevention Awareness Day: The Role of Creative Partnerships. Over 900 participants

registered. Three additional webinars were offered by partnering organizations:

August 28 Innovations in Injury and Violence Prevention: Integrating Falls Prevention

into Healthcare Systems was sponsored by the SXSW Injury Prevention Network.

September 17 Preventing Falls in Adults with Disabilities and Chronic Health

Conditions explains the best research on how to effectively prevent falls among men

and women with disabilities.

September 19 Dissemination of Falls Risk Screening and Fall Prevention for the

Community-Dwelling Older Adult: A Primer was presented to the FQHCs.

Social Media

2013 represented our first foray into social media for FPAD:

On Facebook, the 6 Steps to Prevent a Fall infographic reached 5,340 individuals.

In September, 98 people/organizations shared information on NCOA’s falls prevention work on Twitter. Here’s a snapshot of what people were talking about:

http://www.illuminage.com/webinars/preventing-falls.htm

http://www.illuminage.com/webinars/preventing-falls.htm

http://www.childrenssafetynetwork.org/webinar/sxsw-webinar-integrating-falls-prevention-aug28

http://www.childrenssafetynetwork.org/webinar/sxsw-webinar-integrating-falls-prevention-aug28

http://www.spinalcord.org/webinar-archive/

http://www.spinalcord.org/webinar-archive/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YsUTfOKWL0E

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YsUTfOKWL0E


41

Looking Toward 2014

In 2014, the 7th National Fall Prevention Awareness Day will be observed on September 23. We will be targeting all 50 states and the District of Columbia, and we will be marshaling

more of our national and federal partners.

Participating National and Federal Partners

CDC/National Center for Injury Prevention (NCIPC)

NCIPC became actively involved in promoting FPAD, issuing a new Mortality and Morbidity Weekly Report (September 20, 2013/62(37); 773) announcing the upcoming National

Falls Prevention Awareness Day on September 22, 2013:

http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6237a6.htm?s_cid=mm6237a6_e

NCIPC also created a podcast entitled Keeping Seniors Safe:

http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/mmwrpodcasts.html

The Administration on Community Living

The Administration on Community Living/Administration on Aging devoted a web page to

announcing Falls Prevention Awareness Day and included it in their weekly electronic

newsletters: http://www.acl.gov/NewsRoom/Observances/2013/Sept22_FallsPrevention.aspx

The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)

AOTA strongly encouraged members to become actively engaged in FPAD. Helpful

resources were developed, including tip

sheets and fact sheets, and a Toolkit with PowerPoint presentations on the AOTA website on the Falls Prevention page of the

Productive Aging section.

For background information on the importance of OTs’ role in this area, the May/June 2012 issue of the American Journal of Occupational Therapy focuses on productive aging, and the

March/April 2012 issue focuses on falls prevention. The AOTA/CDC Falls Prevention Project

shows how AOTA is collaborating with other groups to help decrease falls.

AOTA also promoted entry level, Occupational Therapy Program directors to engage students

Falls Prevention Awareness Day by showcasing occupational therapy’s vital role in helping to prevent falls.

http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6237a6.htm?s_cid=mm6237a6_e

http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/mmwrpodcasts.html

http://www.acl.gov/NewsRoom/Observances/2013/Sept22_FallsPrevention.aspx

http://www.aota.org/Practice/Productive-Aging/Falls/Toolkit.aspx

http://www.aota.org/Practice/Productive-Aging/Falls.aspx

http://ajot.aotapress.net/content/66/3.toc

http://ajot.aotapress.net/content/66/2.toc


42

The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)

Falls prevention messaging was promoted through the Geriatric Section and the Balance and Falls Special

Interest Group (BF Sig) using listservs, the website, and

special alerts. In addition, the APTA is currently supporting a GeriEDGE group which will recommend best, evidence-based, outcome measures for use by physical therapists treating

patients for falls prevention and risk management.

APTA’s Section on Geriatrics listserv was utilized by the BF Sig officers to call on geriatric

physical therapists from across the nation to provide fall risk screenings for older adults

utilizing the CDC’s STEADI toolkit. Over 90 PTs responded by email gathering information and offering their services. Their efforts were paired with those of the Falls Free® coalition

leads in many states. Universities engaged their students and, in many cases,

interdisciplinary efforts were launched.

APTA provides education on exercise prescriptions for balance and falls prevention, and

offers resources for physical therapists on balance and falls prevention, how to develop consumer events on balance, falls, and exercise, and information on evidence-

based falls programs. Members can also access an APTA pocket guide on falls risk

reduction, as well as take part in an online community where members can share

information about falls prevention.

National Institute of Aging/NIH

Mark your calendars for these Go4Life Partner observances in September September 22 is Falls Prevention Awareness Day

Did you know that every 15 seconds an older adult is treated in an emergency department for a fall-related injury? To inform the public about the danger of falls and how to reduce the risk of falling, the National Council on Aging’s (NCOA) Falls Free® Initiative is sponsoring Falls Prevention Awareness Day on

September 22. This year’s theme, Preventing Falls — One Step at a Time, seeks to unite older adults, professionals, caregivers, and family members to raise awareness about falls prevention. Here are some resources to help you get involved:

NCOA’s website has a media toolkit, sample activities, and information about community partners.

For more information about falls and their effect on older adults, see the National Institute on

Aging (NIA) AgePage on Falls and Fractures (also available in Spanish) and NIHSeniorHealth’s Falls and Older Adults.

http://list.niapublications.org/niaalert/lists/lt.php?id=LksGVANQAFZcVE0HBAAdVQFX

http://www.apta.org/Courses/Online/ExPAAC/EBP_BalanceandFallsPrevention/

http://www.apta.org/BalanceFalls/ConsumerEvents/

http://www.apta.org/BalanceFalls/

http://www.apta.org/BalanceFalls/

http://www.apta.org/uploadedFiles/APTAorg/Practice_and_Patient_Care/Patient_Care/Physical_Fitness/Members_Only/PocketGuide_Falls.pdf

http://www.apta.org/uploadedFiles/APTAorg/Practice_and_Patient_Care/Patient_Care/Physical_Fitness/Members_Only/PocketGuide_Falls.pdf

http://communities.apta.org/communities/fp/Pages/Default.aspx

http://list.niapublications.org/niaalert/lists/lt.php?id=LksGVANQAFZcVU0HBAAdVQFX

http://list.niapublications.org/niaalert/lists/lt.php?id=LksGVANQAFZcWk0HBAAdVQFX

http://list.niapublications.org/niaalert/lists/lt.php?id=LksGVANQAFZcW00HBAAdVQFX

http://list.niapublications.org/niaalert/lists/lt.php?id=LksGVANQAFZdUk0HBAAdVQFX


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Go4Life’s falls prevention resources include: o Preventing Falls (PDF, 396.8 KB) and Exercise to Improve Your Balance (PDF, 112.79

KB) tip sheets to print and distribute or link to online o Information about balance and why it is important in falls prevention

o Balance exercises to try

For more information, please visit www.ncoa.org/FPAD.

National Eye Institute/NIH

Summer 2013 NEI Home | NEHEP Home | Catalog

Outlook is the electronic newsletter of the National Eye Health Education Program (NEHEP). Outlook

provides quarterly updates on eye health education activities and resources.

In the Summer 2013 Issue:

• Letter From the Chair of the NEHEP Planning

Committee

• September is Healthy Aging Month

• NEI Clarifies How Supplements Can Help Protect Against AMD

• New Resources To Help Children Learn About Vision and Eye Health

• NEHEP Resources Help Primary Care Physicians Provide Eye Health Information

• NEI YouTube Playlist Available

• National Falls Prevention Awareness Day Is

September 22

• ASORN: Upcoming Educational Events in 2013

• Featured Organization: National Medical Association

• On The Road With NEHEP

• Let Us Know What You Think About Outlook

Educational Resource Spotlight: Ask a Scientist

Order NEI Materials

The National Eye Health Education

Program is coordinated by the National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This administrative document may be reprinted without

permission.

http://list.niapublications.org/niaalert/lists/lt.php?id=LksGVANQAFZdU00HBAAdVQFX

http://list.niapublications.org/niaalert/lists/lt.php?id=LksGVANQAFZdUE0HBAAdVQFX

http://list.niapublications.org/niaalert/lists/lt.php?id=LksGVANQAFZdUU0HBAAdVQFX

http://list.niapublications.org/niaalert/lists/lt.php?id=LksGVANQAFZdVk0HBAAdVQFX

http://list.niapublications.org/niaalert/lists/lt.php?id=LksGVANQAFZdV00HBAAdVQFX

http://lists.icfwebservices.com/t/77902/173891/666/4/

































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Prevent Blindness America Supports National Falls Prevention Awareness Day

on September 22

Millions with Refractive Error, Eye Disease at Increased Risk for Falls

CHICAGO (Sept. XX, 2013) – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that one

out of three people ages 65 and older falls each year. And, according to the National Council on Aging, every 15 seconds an older adult is treated in an emergency room for a fall -

related injury. People who fall are 2 to 3 times more likely to fall again. By the year 2020,

direct and indirect costs related to injuries from falls are expected to reach $54.9 billion.

Unfortunately, those with impaired vision are more likely to experience falls and injuries.

Vision impairment can affect balance. It also increases the risk of tripping or misjudging steps, stairs or curbs. Today, based on data from the 2012 “Vision Problems in the U.S.”

study, more than 48 million Americans over the age of 40 have refractive error and more

than 36 million suffer cataract, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration.

Prevent Blindness America joins with more than 70 national organizations of the Falls Free™ Coalition to declare Sept. 22, 2013, the first day of autumn, as National Falls Prevention

Awareness Day. This year’s theme, “Preventing Falls—One Step at a Time,” is aimed at

educating the public on the risk factors for falls and prevention strategies.

The CDC also states that most falls are caused by a combination of multiple risk factors.

Some risk factors can be modifiable including:

Poor vision

Lower body weakness Difficulties with gait and balance

Use of psychoactive medications

Postural dizziness

Problems with feet and/or shoes Home hazards

“The overall impact of a fall on an older person can be devastating, beyond just the initial injury. The effects on the patient, caregivers and family can be emotionally and financially

enormous,” said Hugh R. Parry, president and CEO of Prevent Blindness America. “We hope

that by alerting the public to the dangers of falls, as well as educating them on ways to avoid them, we can help prevent unnecessary injuries. And, maintaining healthy vision is one way

to accomplish this!”

For more information about National Falls Prevention Awareness Day or general eye health,

please contact Prevent Blindness America at (800) 331-2020 or preventblindness.org.

http://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/Falls/steadi/index.html

http://www.ncoa.org/improve-health/center-for-healthy-aging/falls-prevention/

http://www.ncoa.org/improve-health/center-for-healthy-aging/falls-prevention/

http://www.visionproblemsus.org/index.html



http://www.cdc.gov/HomeandRecreationalSafety/pdf/steadi/risk_factors_for_falls.pdf


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Fall Prevention Center of Excellence & American Society on Aging

The Fall Prevention Center of Excellence celebrated FPAD with a blog, new web

resources, and a join announcement with

the American Society on Aging:

http://asaging.org/blog/start-fall-falls-prevention

By Emily Nabors, Anna Quyên Đỗ Nguyễn and Jon Pynoos

September 22—the first day of fall—marked the sixth annual National Falls Prevention Awareness Day. Across

the nation, fall prevention coalitions, health providers and senior service agencies held presentations, health

fairs and workshops to raise awareness about this serious health issue and how best to reduce the risks of falling.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that one in three adults older than 65 fall

each year, and falls are the leading cause of injury, hospitalization due to trauma, and death from an injury

among adults age 65 and older. A fall can limit an elder’s activity, cause loss of independence, disability,

institutionalization, reduced quality of life, and eventually death.

Many think falls are an inevitable part of aging, but research shows fall risks can be reduced through several

interventions: a fall risk assessment by a health professional; regular physical activity to increase balance, strength and flexibility; and having a home assessed and modified to prevent falls.

To further prevent falls, older adults are encouraged to discuss possible fall risks with their doctor, have their

vision checked regularly, have a pharmacist review their medications, and contact a local senior center for any

fall-prevention activities offered. It is never too early to begin practicing fall prevention strategies!

Now there are plenty of evidence-based fall prevention tools, programs and initiatives available to older adults

and the professionals who serve them. The CDC recently released a toolkit for health providers called Stopping

Elderly Accidents, Deaths, and Injuries (STEADI). And they are sponsoring the dissemination of the evidence-

based programs Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance, Stepping On and the Otago Home Exercise Programme. Last year communities in 45 states and Washington, D.C., recognized Fall Prevention Awareness Day. This year

all states are encouraged to get involved. Visit the following websites for information, ideas for activities and to

learn what fall prevention efforts are taking place in your state:

Fall Prevention Center of Excellence

National Council on Aging

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Emily Nabors, MSG, is program coordinator and evaluator at the Fall Prevention Center of Excellence in Los Angeles, Calif;

Anna Quyên Đỗ Nguyễn, OTD, OTR/L, is an occupational therapist and research scientist for the Fall Prevention Center;

Jon Pynoos, Ph.D., is co-director of the Fall Prevention Center, and professor of gerontology and policy, planning and

development at the University of Southern California Andrus Gerontology Center, also in Los Angeles.

http://asaging.org/

http://asaging.org/blog/start-fall-falls-prevention




http://www.ncoa.org/improve-health/center-for-healthy-aging/tai-chi-moving-for-better.html

http://www.steppingon.com/

http://www.acc.co.nz/PRD_EXT_CSMP/groups/external_providers/documents/publications_promotion/prd_ctrb118334.pdf

http://www.stopfalls.org/


http://www.cdc.gov/HomeandRecreationalSafety/Falls/index.html

Falls Prevention Awareness Day 2013 - Radford

Documents

Transcript of Falls Prevention Awareness Day 2013 - Radford