Rate of Death due to Falls among Older Adults Decreased in 2019

The New Mexico Department of Health announced today that deaths due to falls among adults 65 and older decreased slightly from a rate of 93.9 deaths per 100,000 in 2018 to 91.6 deaths per 100,000 in 2019. The New Mexico Bureau of Vital and Health Statistics reported 347 deaths due to falls among adults 65 and older residing in New Mexico in 2019. Even though this figure is slightly higher than the number of deaths due to falls in 2018 (345), the rate per 100,000 is lower in 2019.

Falls remain a danger to New Mexicans 65 and older. “As New Mexico’s population ages, fall prevention should remain a priority,” said Department of Health Secretary-Designate Tracie C. Collins, M.D.  

The Department’s Adult Falls Prevention Program is working on ways to decrease rates of fall-related injuries and deaths among older adults. The program supports evidence-based interventions to prevent falls, including programs such as A Matter of Balance; Tai Chi for Arthritis for Falls Prevention; Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance; and Otago. NMDOH also promotes use of the Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths and Injuries (STEADI) Falls Prevention Toolkit among health care professionals.

Most falls can be prevented and should not be considered part of a normal aging process. A few simple tips can help prevent falls:

• Find a program that helps to build balance, strength, and flexibility. A list of classes can be found at nmhealth.org
• Talk to your health care provider; share your recent history of falls and ask for an assessment of your risk of falling
• Regularly review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist. Make sure side effects are not increasing your risk of falling
• Get your vision and hearing checked annually and update your eyeglasses
• Keep your home safe. Remove tripping hazards, increase lighting, make stairs safe, and install grab bars in key areas
• Talk to your family members about the risks of falling and how to prevent falls

It is particularly important to prevent falls during the COVID-19 pandemic, when so many older adults are experiencing isolation. People who are at increased risk for falls should remember to keep scheduled doctor’s appointments, stay active, eat a well-balanced diet, stay hydrated, stay connected with friends and family, move slowly, and be attentive to fall risks. 

A list of classes related to fall prevention - including online classes - can be found on theFind a Class.

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Disminuyó en 2019 el Índice de Muertes por Caídas en Adultos Mayores