Falls continue to be the primary cause of injury hospitalizations for seniors, including in Nevada County. Last year 13-hundred-42 were admitted to the emergency department, a spike of 129 from 2014. Cynthia Shuetz, with the local Falls Prevention Coalition, says it’s mainly due to the growing influx of aging baby boomers to this area. She says most falls occur in and around the home and many hazards are fairly easy to correct….

click to listen to Cynthia Shuetz

Shuetz says medical conditions are also a factor, including making sure there’s a proper mix of medications, as well as having glasses with up-to-date prescriptions. The Coalition put on its 9th annual Community Workshop in September, with about 250 seniors attending. They also hold a resources fair, but make their presence known throughout the year…

click to listen to Cynthia Shuetz

Shuetz says nurses from the Foundation can also come to a home to do a risk assessment. And the local chapter of FREED, the independent living group, also offers free repairs and upgrades. The Coalition also says the numbers don’t reflect the large number of seniors who call 9-1-1 for fall-related emergencies, but who aren’t transported to the hospital.