To reduce by 20% the number of fatal or disabling falls in people over 65, this is essentially the objective of the Three-year anti-fall plan for the elderly which have just been jointly launched by Olivier Véran, Minister of Solidarity and Health, and Brigitte Bourguignon, Minister Delegate in charge of Autonomy.
Every year, falls among seniors lead to more than 10,000 hospitalizations and 10,000 deaths. The plan will therefore be structured around 5 themes:
- Know how to identify the risk of falls
- Arrange your home to avoid the risk of falls
- Technical mobility aids for everyone
- Physical activity as a weapon against hair loss
- Remote support for everyone.
“The objective of a 20% reduction in fatal falls or falls resulting in hospitalization of the elderly by 2024 is based on the results of available scientific assessments, in particular from Inserm, which conclude that actions targeted at the elderly, first and foremost adapted physical activity and prevention, have an estimated impact of 20-25% reduction in falls” underline the ministries concerned. These objectives will be broken down at the regional level and coordinated by the regional health agencies (ARS)
5 “pre-faller” signs
Certain signs are objectively recognized as being involved in the increased risk of falling. Drawing the attention of family, caregivers and people working with the elderly on these signs can reduce the risk of falling.
>> Sedentary lifestyle or physical inactivity : sedentary lifestyle, corresponding to people aged 60 and over who accumulate more than 8 hours per day of sedentary time and physical inactivity, corresponding to people aged 60 and over who accumulate less than 2½ hours per week of moderate-intensity activity.
>> Fear of falling : practicing an adapted physical activity helps to fight against this fear and prevent the risk of falling.
>> Malnutrition : a weight loss greater than or equal to 5% of the initial weight in 1 month or 10% in 6 months constitutes a risk factor for falls.
>> Alteration of vision and hearing : this mainly concerns » older seniors who are at risk of falling at home.
>> Housing : unsuitable housing represents a real risk. Housing involves risks made invisible by habits. Small adjustments can often prevent major consequences.
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