Sinema highlighted Arizona programs aimed at preventing and reducing falls
WASHINGTON – Arizona senior Senator Kyrsten Sinema spoke at a Senate Aging Committee hearing focused on preventing seniors from dangerous falls.
“Nearly one in three Arizona seniors report falling each year, but falling does not need to become a part of growing older. There are a range of early interventions and technologies which can reduce the risk of falling and mitigate the consequences,” said Sinema.
Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans. In Arizona, falls led to 42,808 emergency visits in 2016, costing Arizona families $933.6 million. The national cost of treating fall-related injuries across the country exceeds $50 billion.
During today’s hearing, Sinema highlighted Phoenix’s Banner University Medical Center’s geriatric emergency department, which ensures older patients are cared for by nurses and doctors who are specially trained to detect and prevent falls. Sinema also highlighted Northern Arizona Area Agency on Aging’s Carenect program, which provides low-cost wearable devices for seniors.
Recently, Sinema joined her Senate Aging Committee colleagues and introduced a bipartisan resolution designating September 23, 2019 as National Falls Prevention Awareness Day. The resolution, which unanimously passed the United States Senate, raises awareness for fall prevention efforts in Arizona and across the country.
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