Company-wide Falls
Management By JoAnne Carlin, MSN, RN, NHA, CPHRM, CDAL Vice President, Willis of Illinois, Inc. Clinical Risk Services Willis Towers Watson
Scope and Severity
It’s widely known that falls are a major health risk for older adults. Statistics from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and other reliable sources, such as insurance carriers, list falls that happen to individuals 65 and older as injurious, costly and very often contributing to their deaths. A May 2018 report from the CDC shows that from 2007 to 2016 death from falls has increased by 31%, and the fastest growing rate was among persons 85 and older. Since many senior living operators report that the average age of residents is increasing, it is easy to understand why falls are a prevalent liability in the senior living community and a topic that all operators will want to address.
Senior living communities endeavor to provide a safe and secure environment for residents where they can thrive and enjoy their lives. But when the impact of resident falls on communities and the industry is examined, the results are devastating.
Some of the consequences of falls for residents: ƒ ƒ
Reduced quality of life
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Increased fear of falling and self-restriction of activities Decreased ability to function independently Serious injuries, temporary and permanent Increased risk of death
Some of the consequences of resident falls for communities: ƒƒ
Increased levels of care required for residents who have fallen
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More caregiver hours needed Survey citations
Lawsuits and claims Higher insurance premiums Move-outs due to permanent injury and/or death
These compelling facts highlight the need for senior living operators to conduct a thorough review of programs in place at their organizations to manage and mitigate this liability. Senior living companies may be challenged by looking at this topic comprehensively. Where to start and how to establish a company-wide program or conduct a review of an existing program may seem difficult, but the benefits of having an effective falls management program will make the effort worthwhile.
Organizing the approach to Falls Management
The need to focus on falls management is clear but, the solutions are complex, multifaceted and varied. A way to help organize the approach for establishing or improving a falls management program is to start by appointing a falls management task force that includes representatives from
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