SAFE-TI: A Falls Reduction Program

As the leading cause of injury-related death, falls are a foremost safety issue for adults age 65 and older. SAFE-TI: A Falls Reduction Program, has been developed by Mather LifeWays Institute on Aging and is based on research and evidence.

Background:

In 2003, more than 13,700 deaths in adults 65 years of age and older were caused by fall-related injuries (source: Centers for Disease Control). The total direct cost for falls among older adults in 2000 was about $19 billion.

Older adults, regardless of living setting, are at risk for falls and associated injuries. It's been estimated that 30% of community-dwelling older adults fall at least one time per year. The problem is even more pronounced in nursing homes, with 50% of residents falling annually, and the consequences are more likely to be a serious injury, such as a laceration, fracture, or the need for hospital care.

Studies show that effective falls reduction programs take proactive tactics targeting gait, balance, and education for staff and residents. SAFE-TI uses this approach with recommendations applicable across all care levels. Most programming fails because of the 'parental' approach dictating what should and should not be done to prevent falls.

Program Objectives:

Participants will use the toolkit to develop comprehensive falls reduction programs in their residences, resulting in decreased fall rates.

Contact:

For more information, please contact Cecilia Grefalda at cgrefalda@matherlifeways.com or (847) 492.7444.