September 22, 2023 is Fall Prevention Awareness Day.  We don’t expect big festivities for this occasion, but we hope maybe some Americans will take the time to think about the dangers of a most common problem: falling.

Oxeia takes fall prevention awareness seriously.   Falls are the most common cause of concussions. 

Brain injuries that are the result of spectacular tackles, jabs, or body checks generate the greatest news interest.  But athletes are not the only people getting concussions.  We are aware of the power sports have on concussion awareness.  After all, Oxeia has Alex Smith on its board of directors and Richard Sherman on our board of advisors.  Ultimately, we know that our dedication to finding a treatment for concussions is of importance to a far greater number of people who slip or fall in the kitchen, bathroom, or on the worksite floor than meet an unexpected fate at the hands of a tight end.

Here are some facts about falls to warrant your interest:

• One million seek emergency room treatment for falls; that translates to 2,000 ER-worthy falls per day in the USA alone. And the number of unreported concussions from falls is likely at least double that number.

• Slips and falls account for one-eighth of 8 million injuries and deaths each year in the USA.

• Slips and falls are the primary cause of occupational injuries for folks over age 55.

• According to a Centers for Disease report issued earlier this month, the leading cause of injury and death among adults aged 65 and older is unintentional falls.

Many falls may be destined to happen, but the truth is that many can easily be avoided.  The easiest thing you can do, simply put, is to be mindful of where you are walking.  Think about the kind of surface you are walking on.  Wet and uneven surfaces are dangerous.  Look out for parking lot potholes and torn carpeting.  And mind your footwear!  24% of falls occur when people wear improper shoes.  Sure 6-inch heels are a problem, but also be aware of any footwear lacking traction.