Southwest Montana News

National Falls Prevention Week, observed from September 18-22, prompts Montanans to evaluate their risk of falling and consider preventative measures. According to the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), nearly one in three Montanans aged 65 and older reported experiencing a fall in the past year.

Melissa Dale, DPHHS Falls Prevention Program Manager, stated, “Falling is not a normal part of aging, but knowing a person’s risk factors can reduce the chance of an unintentional fall.” She highlighted that as individuals age, their risk of falling increases.

Dale mentioned that nearly half (48%) of falls among Montanans aged 55 and over result from slips, trips, or stumbles at ground level. In 2022 alone, Montana recorded over 19,000 emergency department visits due to unintentional falls. However, many falls can be prevented through proactive measures.

More than half of all falls occur at home. Dale emphasized that safety modifications and lifestyle changes can mitigate this risk. “Older adults need to be aware of what activities may put them at risk,” she said.

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) has partnered with DPHHS to raise awareness among older Montanans about their fall risks. The NCOA offers a free tool called the Falls Free Check-Up available online. This questionnaire assesses an individual's fall risk based on 13 questions; more calculated risk factors indicate a higher likelihood of falling.

“Those who have multiple risk factors for falling, who have fallen, or have a fear of falling are welcome to attend a falls prevention workshop,” Dale advised.

DPHHS collaborates with local communities in Montana to provide workshops like Stepping On and Stay Active & Independent for Life (SAIL). These programs aim to reduce fall risks through lifestyle management and physical activity.

For information on Stepping On and SAIL workshops, visit the Montana Falls Prevention Program website or call 1-844-684-5848.