The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) will use a $600,000 federal grant to expand fall-prevention programs for older adults, with a focus on older adults living in underserved areas.
The funding comes from the Administration for Community Living (ACL), and will be used for training, equipment, and workforce development for fall-prevention programs.
Falls are the most common cause of emergency department visits in Rhode Island, and can significantly impact a person’s mobility and independence. More than one quarter of older adults in Rhode Island fall each year, and falling once doubles their chances of falling again.
The grant will support the expansion of existing fall-prevention programs, including A Matter of Balance and Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance for older adults in collaboration with housing authorities in Woonsocket, Providence, and East Providence.
RIDOH will also use the funding to increase awareness of fall-prevention programs, improve data on fall-prevention EMS visits, and build a workforce of trained fall-prevention providers.
“This is Fall Prevention Awareness Week, and it is an important reminder that the prevention of falls is one way to help older adults maintain their independence,” said Olutosin Ojugbele, MD, Medical Director for RIDOH’s Division of Community Health and Equity. “By helping older adults to focus on improved balance, strength, and home safety, we can significantly reduce the risk of falls and enhance quality of life. Healthcare professionals, caregivers, and family members should all know about the resources that are available to help prevent falls.”
Older adults can also take steps to improve their balance and strength, and can help prevent falls by removing tripping hazards like area rugs or other clutter, adding grab bars inside and outside of bathtubs and showers and next to toilets, ensuring all stairs have railings, and making sure all areas in their home are well lit.
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) assisted a What’sUpNewp journalist with the reporting included in this story.
