Falls legislation proposed in Congress

The Keeping Seniors Safe from Falls Act was introduced in Congress earlier this month. The act, sponsored by Rep. Ralph M. Hall (R- TX) and Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ), seeks to create a national public education and awareness campaign that informs healthcare professionals about how to reduce falls, which are the leading cause of death among seniors, affecting one-third of adults over 65 each year.

The bill will expand research and provide demonstration projects to develop better ways to prevent falls and improve the treatment and rehabilitation of fall victims.

“The type of education on elderly falls provided through this bill will help inform health professionals about how to reduce these avoidable and frequently disabling injuries,” Rep. Pallone said. The bill is supported by the National Council on the Aging, the Home Safety Council and the National Safety Council.