Falls were the leading cause of emergency department visits among San Diego County adults 60 and older in 2024, with nearly 40,000 older adults seen for fall-related injuries, according to county data released during Fall Prevention Awareness Week.

More than 13,000 of those patients were hospitalized, and 338 died, according to the County of San Diego Communications Office.

"A fall can happen in an instant, but recovering from a broken wrist or hip fracture can take months," said Allison Boyer, interim director of County Aging & Independence Services. "With some simple proactive planning, older adults can greatly reduce their risk of falling and serious injury."

While slippery surfaces and uneven sidewalks are well-known hazards, everyday items such as loose rugs, poorly lit hallways, and hard-to-reach objects also contribute to serious injuries at home, county officials said.

The county's Aging & Independence Services urged older adults and caregivers to assess fall risks, recommending five steps: staying active with leg-strengthening and balance exercises, reviewing medications for side effects such as dizziness or fatigue, checking vision and hearing annually, improving home safety with better lighting and grab bars, and using the online Falls Free CheckUp to identify personal risk factors.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, older adults who fall once are twice as likely to fall again. Risk factors include vision or hearing loss, lower body weakness, balance issues, certain medications, and chronic conditions such as diabetes or arthritis.

The county pointed to falls' broader effect on quality of life, noting that many older adults limit activities out of fear of falling again, which can lead to physical decline, depression, and isolation. Fall prevention resources are available online through the county's Aging & Independence Services, or by calling 858-495-5500.