This November is the First Fall Prevention Month in Ontario

Older adults are being encouraged to take steps to reduce the risk of injury from a fall. That is why Region of Waterloo Public Health and Emergency Services is participating in Ontario’s first Fall Prevention Month this November.

Falls are a serious issue for older adults. An estimated 1 in 3 older adults fall each year (1). In 2010, falls were responsible for the most injury deaths in Ontario and generated $2.8 billion in costs to the provincial economy (2).

The good news is that falls are preventable! Region of Waterloo Public Health and Emergency Services has developed a Home Safety Checklist to help older adults identify fall risks in the home. This easy-to-use checklist covers every room in the house and also includes important fire safety information and medication safety tips. Find this printable checklist at www.regionofwaterloo.ca/homesafety

During Fall Prevention Month, Region of Waterloo Public Health and Emergency Services will be working with local organizations to:

• Raise awareness about the issue of falls in our community;
• Help them see their role in preventing falls; and
• Encourage use of fall prevention resources and tools

(1) Statistics Canada. (2014). Understanding seniors’ risk of falling and their perception of risk. Statistics Canada Catalogue no.82-624-X. Ottawa, ON.

(2) Parachute. (2015). The Cost of Injury in Canada. Toronto, ON: Parachute.

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Media contact: Kirsten Keil-Mehlenbacher, Coordinator, Health Communications, 519-575-4400 ext. 2244, kkeil-mehlenbacher@regionofwaterloo.ca