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Aiming to Reduce Fall Injuries Among Kūpuna

The Hawaii State Department of Health (DOH) has launched a statewide Fall Prevention Awareness Campaign, designed to reduce fall injuries among kūpuna (elders). The campaign, which began on June 22, 2023, is a response to the troubling numbers of fall-related injuries and fatalities among Hawaii‘s seniors.

The Impact of Falls on Hawaii’s Seniors

Every year in Hawaii, an average of 144 seniors die, 2,184 are hospitalized, and 9,677 are treated in emergency departments because of unintentional falls. These falls create a significant financial toll on families and the healthcare system, with over $241 million in hospital and physician charges incurred in 2022 for fall-related injuries in Hawaii.

The Fall Prevention Campaign

The Fall Prevention Campaign is an annual event sponsored by the State Department of Health and the Hawaii Fall Prevention Consortium. This year’s campaign features new public service announcements, tai chi classes at all Oahu YMCAs, community presentations focusing on preventing falls among older adults, and free medication reviews for kūpuna at Times and KTA Pharmacies.

The Importance of Fall Prevention

“Almost every hour, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, a senior is transported by ambulance to an emergency room in our state because of a fall injury,” said Dr. Alvin Bronstein, chief of the Emergency Medical Services and Injury Prevention Systems Branch. “Yet many falls and fall-related injuries can be prevented with existing knowledge and technology.”

Advice for Preventing Falls

The Hawaii State Department of Health offers the following advice to seniors, their family members, and caregivers to prevent falls and fall-related injuries:

  • Have your doctor or pharmacist review your medications yearly.
  • Get an annual eye exam.
  • If you live alone, get a Personal Electronic Safety Device.
  • Make your home safer by removing fall hazards and improving lighting.
  • Exercise regularly to increase balance and flexibility.

The Fall Prevention Awareness Campaign is a crucial initiative to reduce fall injuries among Hawaii’s kūpuna. By raising awareness and providing practical advice, the campaign aims to ensure the safety and well-being of Hawaii’s senior population.