The new report authored by CCRP Health Policy Analyst Melissa Jones highlights figures showing that more than 19,000 people in Humboldt County are 65 or older. Seniors who fell to the ground more than once in the past 12 months reached 18.3 percent in 2007, versus 14.8 percent in 2003. Comparable figures for Del Norte and Trinity Counties were 17.9 percent and 18.6 percent respectively.
These fall rates exceed California’s, which were 14.5 percent in 2007 and 11.9 percent in 2003.
Walkability and safety can be enhanced—and tens of thousands of dollars in hospitalization costs avoided—with smoother sidewalks, even pavements, more rest benches and universal home designs that feature wide hallways and low cabinets, according to Jones’s policy brief, “It Takes a Village to Prevent a Fall.” Better city and county planning can mitigate risk with adjusted sidewalk/pavement repairs and benches deployed more frequently along common routes, she says.
The CCRP analysis recommends public works departments rely on citizen input about tripping hazards and that all citizens, not just the swelling ranks of aging baby boomers, report hazards promptly.
“Universal design of new homes would allow ease of use for all people, regardless of age or physical capacity,” Jones notes. The North Coast’s focus on green design should incorporate universal design, she adds, and there are various incentives to encourage its use: tax credits and deductions, low interest loans for home modifications and the inclusion of universal design features in contract bids.
Jones cites the nascent Arcata Elder Village as one approach to risk reduction. She also urges rural communities to push for the state to complete its pedestrian audit model. “It could help target funding and local support for activities to reduce senior falls,” she reports.
The CCRP policy brief spotlights measures tested by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that can be used by local Area Agencies on Aging. They include straightforward steps such as strength and balance classes, correct footwear, reduced tripping hazards at home and prudent medication management.
On average, one-third of adults above age 60 and half of adults above age 80 fall each year, and the CCRP brief shows that the resulting injuries are a largely preventable community health problem. Prevention is also essential to controlling costs. The mean cost of hospitalization for a fall in Humboldt County exceeds $41,000; in Trinity County, it is almost $40,000. In Mendocino County, it exceeds $29,000 and in Del Norte County, more than $24,000.
The third annual Fall Prevention Awareness Week is scheduled Sept. 19-25 and details on risk reduction are available at http://www.stopfalls.org.
Jones’s policy brief is posted at www.humboldt.edu/ccrp or dial 826-3400.