Take steps to reduce your risk of falling

Kim Griffin Contributor A simple misstep can change your life in a matter of seconds. For older adults, a fall can lead to serious injuries, hospital stays, loss of confidence, reduced independence and even death. In Suwannee County, many residents are choosing to remain in their homes as they grow older, and fall prevention plays an important role in protecting health and maintaining quality of life. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in four adults aged 65 and older falls each year. Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults and can result in hip fractures, head injuries and lengthy recoveries. In rural areas, the impact can be even gr