29.4% of Michiganders aged 65+ reported falling that year.
Nationally, that number was lower, at 27.1%.
But here’s the thing: despite advancements in education and fall prevention products, fall rates continue to trend upward. A study by the University of Michigan highlights this trend, though the reasons remain unclear. Could it be that falls are less severe due to better prevention measures? Or could an increasingly active senior population, eager to enjoy life, be experiencing more activity-related falls?
And let’s face it—Michigan winters are no joke. Icy sidewalks and snowy driveways make staying steady a real challenge.
What we do know is this: falls pose a significant danger to seniors, and reducing fall risk must be a priority.
Here’s another sobering fact: fall risk increases with age. By the time someone reaches
85 years old, they’re 21 times more likely to fall than someone aged 65-74
Even more concerning? People 85+ account for
61% of all fall-related deaths.
But this isn’t just a problem for those over 85—39% of fall deaths occur in younger seniors.
Neither number is acceptable.
Here at COR Freedom, we’re on a mission to change this. Too often, home accessibility changes are reactive, made only after a fall and injury occur. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With the right education and equipment, we can help bring those numbers down and add years of healthy, active living for seniors across Michigan.
This is our commitment.
Stay tuned for a full year of fall prevention content coming your way. Together, let’s take steps to keep you and your loved ones safe.
