Importance of Fall Prevention

• Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults, leading to significant morbidity and mortality.
• Effective fall prevention programs can reduce the incidence of falls and improve the quality of life for older adults.
• Community-based approaches leverage local resources and partnerships to enhance program effectiveness.
• Historical context: The rise in fall-related injuries has prompted public health initiatives since the late 20th century.

Organizational Support for Fall Prevention

• Assessing support from all levels of the organization is crucial for program success.
• Key stakeholders include board members, directors, staff, volunteers, and older adult clients.
• Understanding current and future goals of the organization helps align fall prevention initiatives with broader objectives.
• Example: A community hospital may prioritize fall prevention to reduce readmission rates among older adults.