Report Highlights the Danger of Older Adult Falls by State
Falls are the leading cause of injury and injury related deaths among adults 65 and older, with an estimated 52 million falls annually expected by 2030, according to the CDC.
Forbes Health recently released data that features the epidemic of falls and shines a light on some of the worst states for falls among older Americans.
The Forbes Health data considered the rate of falls in each state, the number of falls deaths, and the accessibility of timely care after a fall. Based on their criteria, the five worst states were:
- Washington
- Utah
- Colorado
- Washington, DC
- Oregon
Fortunately, there is a bipartisan bill in Congress that has the potential to reduce the incidence of senior falls. The Stopping Addiction and Falls for the Elderly (SAFE) Act (H.R. 7618) would provide Medicare beneficiaries with a no-cost falls risk assessment by a physical or occupational therapist—the falls experts—as part of their annual wellness benefit.
Despite the need for policy solutions to this epidemic, just three Representatives from the worst five states – Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-5), Rep. Joe Neguse (CO-2), and Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At Large)— have signed on in support of this vital legislation.
This is where we need your help.
As a member of the therapy community, lawmakers need to hear from you about the importance of the SAFE Act. Whether your state is at the top or bottom of this list, this legislation can make a difference for all older Americans – regardless of state.