Santa Fe Standard

Falls are a significant concern for adults aged 65 and older, being the leading cause of death and injury within this demographic. Statistics show that one in four older adults experiences a fall each year, often resulting in serious injuries, hospitalizations, and long-term disabilities.

Samantha Valdez, the Adult Falls Prevention Program Coordinator for the New Mexico Department of Health, emphasized the increased risk during winter: “As we age, our balance and strength naturally decline, making falls increasingly dangerous, especially in the winter.” She stressed the importance of raising awareness and taking proactive measures to safeguard older individuals.

While Falls Prevention Awareness Week is observed in September, Valdez noted that winter poses additional risks due to icy conditions. Cold weather can make outdoor surfaces like sidewalks and driveways treacherous.

For more details on preventing falls or accessing resources from the New Mexico Department of Health's Office of Adult Falls Prevention, visit their website at www.nmhealth.org/about/erd/ibeb/oafp/.

The department also offers a Spanish version of this information. For further inquiries about this press release, Robert Nott is available for contact at the office.