ASHEVILLE, NC (News Release) — The NC Center for Health and Wellness at UNC Asheville, in partnership with the NC Falls Prevention Coalition, is excited to announce the release of three new public service announcements (PSAs) to prevent falls.
The mission of the Standing Strong North Carolina campaign is to prevent falls and save lives. These PSAs will connect people to the new website launched by the NC Center for Health and Wellness, StandingStrongNC.org, to find tips and resources to prevent falls.
While preventing falls is something to pay attention to daily, it is especially important around the holidays for people of all ages to be aware of the simple steps to prevent falls for themselves and for the ones they love. Injuries from falls can be more severe in older adults, so if you are visiting a friend or family member’s home or are hosting older guests yourself, it’s a great opportunity to review some basic falls prevention steps. Take your time to find your way around a new place and any pets. Notice where the steps and light switches are located. Remove any fall hazards on the floor, such as decorations and toys.
“More than four older adults died last year in NC every day from a fall. Many more were injured. Falling is not a normal part of aging, and most falls are preventable. We hope that these public service announcements will spread this message and increase awareness about this urgent public health issue,” said Ellen Bailey, senior project manager for falls prevention at the NC Center for Health and Wellness.
The NC Center for Health and Wellness and NC Falls Prevention Coalition are committed to helping older adults in North Carolina to reduce their risk of falls. Falls are one of the greatest causes of serious injuries and death among people over 65. Visitors to StandingStrongNC.org will find tips and resources to take action and can take a free online falls risk screening.
About the NC Center for Health and Wellness at UNC Asheville: The NC Center for Health & Wellness at UNC Asheville (NCCHW) works to impact policy, build capacity, and ignite community initiatives by working through a web of cross-sector relationships organized around building healthier places throughout the state. Learn more at ncchw.unca.edu and healthyagingnc.com.
About the NC Falls Prevention Coalition: Since 2008, the NC Falls Prevention Coalition has worked together to reduce injuries and deaths from falls in NC.
Learn more at StandingStrongNC.org and ncfallsprevention.org.
Debbie Antonelli shares startling statistics about deaths due to falls in NC last year, and reminds us that most falls are preventable! Be inspired to take simple steps to prevent a fall, such as installing night lights, holding the handrail, staying active, and taking the time to mind our step. Explore StandingStrongNC.org to find action steps that you can take! Watch the video below for more information:
Listen to Peggy and Paul’s story, well, just a small part of their amazing story! They remind us to talk to the people we love about how to prevent falls! Explore StandingStrongNC.org for tips on how to talk about falls and some simple steps you can take to prevent falls! Watch the video below for more information:
Brad Allen reminds us of the importance of finding an exercise and balance program to stay strong and independent, such as swimming, walking, playing pickleball, doing tai chi and more! Find what works for you and watch some amazing Senior Games folks on the track, including a 99-year old winner! Explore StandingStrongNC.org to find local exercise programs and other steps to prevent falls. Watch the video below for more information:
