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Politics & Government

County Urges Fall Accident Safety

There are 18,000 fatal falls each year, officials say

With falls the leading cause of fatal injuries among Americans 65 or older, Ocean County officials are using Friday’s observance of Falls Prevention Awareness Day to draw attention to programs designed to help senior citizens stay independent and on their feet.

Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari said the number of fatal falls, 18,000 a year, has “risen dramatically’’ over the last decade. Often those who recover from falls lose their independence, are less mobile, or have to enter a nursing home, he explained.

Jane Maloney, director of the county’s Office of Senior Citizens said programs experts recommend to help the elderly avoid falls are already being offered. Healthy Bones, Move Today and Tai Chi classes are offered through the New Jersey HealthEase program, she said. For information call 732-929-2091.

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Malone said the experts also recommend:

  • Getting a fall risk assessment.
  • Having medications reviewed periodically.
  • Making sure the home environment is safe.
  • Public Health Coordinator Daniel Regenye said home health care nurses from his department can do the fall risk assessments and help caregivers and relatives increase safety and fall prevention at home.
  • Occupational and physical therapy may also be recommended to help patients with strength training and improving safety at home, Regeney said.

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