Falls among older adults are costly – certainly in dollars and cents, but also in other important ways.

• For the average assisted living and skilled nursing community, the direct cost of falls is $380,000 per year.
• In hospitals, the average total cost of a fall was $62 521 ($35 365 direct costs).
• Each year about $50 billion is spent on medical costs related to non-fatal fall injuries and $754 million is spent related to fatal falls.

But the costs of falls go beyond direct, physical care. For those people aged 65 and older who experience a fall, it can have a negative impact on their mental and emotional wellbeing – and their quality of life.

• In a study of older adults who experienced a fall, 44% of report feeling ashamed and 43% say they have feelings of anxiety after a fall.
• Fear of falling can result to lifestyle and routine changes, including less involvement in activities and social engagement.
• Changes in activity can lead to reduced muscle tone, flexibility, and physical agility, which actually can increase the risk of future falls and contribute to further health decline.

Combatting the devastating impacts of falls takes strategy, teamwork, and vigilance. An effective falls management program in senior care should include:

• A Safety and Fall Prevention Team that prioritizes falls and frequently reviews and revises fall prevention protocols.
• Fall prevention and fall response training for staff.
• Use of appropriate fall management technology.
• Use of data to track when and how falls occur. This data can be employed to identify and address risks, such as environmental hazards or medication side effects.

Statistics suggest that more than 1 out of 4 people aged 65 or older fall each year. Those living in senior living and care communities face even steeper odds. It is important to address fall management as a way not only to maximize resident safety but enhance quality of life and reduce hospitalizations and other costs.