September is Fall Prevention Month — and that’s an important reminder for older adults and their families. Falls are the number one cause of injury and death for seniors. Each year, millions of older adults across the country end up in the emergency room after a fall. Many never fully recover, and some lose their independence.
At InnovAge LIFE (known as PACE in other states), fall prevention is part of everyday care. LIFE stands for Living Independently for Elders. The program helps seniors stay safe, healthy, and living at home, instead of moving into a nursing home or spending time in the hospital.
How InnovAge LIFE helps prevent falls
The LIFE program uses what’s called an Interdisciplinary Team, or IDT. That means doctors, nurses, therapists, social workers, nutritionists, home-care staff, and transportation experts all work together for each participant. This team approach makes it easier to spot fall risks early and take action.
Here are a few ways the program helps:
- Mobility and balance checks. Nurses and therapists test walking, strength, and balance, and provide exercises, therapy, or equipment when needed.
- Medication reviews. Some medicines can cause dizziness or weakness. The LIFE team helps manage prescriptions to reduce those risks.
- Home safety visits. Staff help identify tripping hazards and make homes safer.
- Transportation and activities. LIFE centers and safe rides to appointments reduce the need for risky, last-minute trips.
- Meals and social activities. Staying active and eating well keeps seniors stronger and more stable on their feet.
Fewer hospital and ER visits
Because of this team approach, participants are less likely to end up in the emergency room or hospital. Falls are one of the main reasons older adults go to the ER, but LIFE programs lower that risk by treating problems before they turn into emergencies. This means fewer hospital stays, less stress for families, and more time spent at home.
Research also shows that LIFE and PACE participants have lower rates of hospitalization compared to seniors who are not in the program. That’s important in Philadelphia, where many families are balancing work, caregiving, and rising costs. Preventing falls helps older adults — and also saves money for families, hospitals, and government programs like Medicare and Medicaid.
“When patients join our program, they are often on many medications and battling many medical problems,” says InnovAge Center Director Dr. Melissa Rathmell. “One participant, Deanna, was on so many medications; she had brain fog, was falling asleep during the day, falling frequently — and was wheelchair-bound because of it. We were able to ramp down some of those medications and help her get her life back.”
“I hooked up with InnovAge and they’ve helped me immensely,” says participant Robert. “I’ve gone from a wheelchair to a walker. If it weren’t for the people here, I wouldn’t be walking at all.”
“I have a physical and occupational therapist,” says Carol, a participant at InnovAge LIFE’s Henry Avenue Center. “And there is no cost for me to be involved in InnovAge. None.”
A safer future for Philadelphia seniors
Falls are common, costly, and preventable. Fall Prevention Month is a good time to talk with your doctor, check your home for hazards, and learn about programs like InnovAge LIFE.
InnovAge centers across Philadelphia are here to help. With team-based care, safe transportation, nutritious meals, and fun activities, InnovAge helps seniors live with independence and dignity — and reduces the chances of dangerous falls.
Sponsored content produced in partnership with InnovAge
