Buckeye Hills Regional Council staff and partners distributed more than 700 pairs of socks across Southeast Ohio to raise awareness about Falls Prevention and protect older adults from injury in their homes. The effort got underway in September, which is designated as Falls Prevention Awareness Month and helps raise awareness about older adults’ falls and how to reduce fall-related injuries.
The non-slip socks were distributed with helpful information on how to prevent falls in the home, informational brochures about the Home Energy Assistance Program, Medicare savings programs, and aging and disability services available through Buckeye Hills Regional Council. These resources were distributed to senior centers throughout Southeast Ohio, through in-home assessments conducted by Buckeye Hills staff, and at community events like the Southeast Ohio Foodbank Distribution in Marietta and a Veterans Day resource fair in Middleport.
“Each year, we promote Falls Prevention Awareness Month to help older adults keep safe in their homes,” said Aging & Health Director Jennifer Westfall. “The idea of the grippy socks came to mind as a way of not only grabbing attention in a fun way but also providing a valuable and cozy gift for the colder months that also double as an additional safety measure for slips and falls.”
According to the Ohio Department of Health, falls are the leading cause of injury among Ohioans age 65 and older. In 2019, falls among older Ohioans led to 1,490 deaths, 18,856 hospitalizations, and 75,091 emergency department visits. In addition, a fall can lead to depression, loss of mobility, and loss of functional independence.
The causes of falls vary, but risk factors include Lower body weakness; Chronic health conditions such as depression, diabetes, obesity, and COPD; poor nutrition; use of multiple medications; reduced vision; home hazards; weather and outdoor conditions; and lack of physical activity.
“People gave us great feedback on the resources and were happy to receive some warm, grippy socks ahead of the winter,” said Communications Specialist Amanda Reeder, who spearheaded the distribution. “Contrary to popular belief, falling does not have to be an automatic part of aging. Everyone can contribute to the safety of their homes and communities by identifying and reducing tripping hazards, such as loose rugs and high shelves, and exercising to improve balance and maintain strength.”
To learn more about Buckeye Hills Regional Council, visit www.buckeyehills.org, call 740-374-9436 or 1-800-331-2644 (toll free), or email info@buckeyehills.org.