PWTF and Preventing Falls Among Older Adults
According to the CDC: “Each year, millions of older people—those 65 and older—fall. In fact, one out of three older people falls each year, but less than half tell their doctor. Falling once doubles your chances of falling again.” The Department’s Prevention and Wellness Trust Fund (PWTF) is addressing this locally at three clinical partner sites. Duffy Health Center, the Community Health Center of Cape Cod, and Harbor Community Health Center in Hyannis are screening their patients, aged 65+, for fall risk. Patients deemed to be at risk for falls are referred to our community partner, the Healthy Living Cape Cod Coalition, to participate in one or more of the following risk-reducing intervention:
Home Safety Assessment
Matter of Balance classes
Tai Chi classes
At the conclusion of these interventions, the Coalition sends completion information back to the clinical provider that made the referral for further follow up with the patient.
To learn more about preventing falls among older adults, visit New CDC study on EMS and Prevention Opportunities 
, National Council on Aging Newsletter , and Preventing Falls: A Guide to Implementing Effective Community-Based Fall Prevention Programs .
