UNDATED (WSAU-WAOW) – A report from the Centers for Disease Control shows that Wisconsin has the highest number of fatal falls for people 65 and older in the country.
The CDC report found fall deaths increased 30 percent between 2009 to 2018.
In Antigo, the fire department says they responded to over 400 calls for injuries as a result of falls last year.
“A lot of times the older population will end up getting pneumonia or some other sort of issue and it will actually end their life sooner than it would have without that traumatic injury,” said Lieutenant Jamie Lenzner, Antigo Fire Department.
Making small changes at home such as adding grab bars, improved lighting, removing clutter that can be tripped over, and family and friends checking in are small ways that can make a big difference in safety. The Aging and Disability Resource Center said they can put you in contact with aid workers to add grab bars and other safety measures for free, and also offers classes to keep seniors healthy.
“To be able to initiate that conversation by saying, ‘yes I did have a fall and here’s what happened.’ But I also think you know if people are comfortable, is to talk about it with family,” said Erin Wells, Community Resource Manager for the Aging and Disability Resource Center.
Wells said she also recommends making sure any medications you take don’t have side effects that weaken your balance.
You can contact the center at 888-486-9545.
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