THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
COUNTY OF SAN MATEO, STATE OF CALIFORNIA

PROCLAMATION DESIGNATING SEPTEMBER 19-25, 2010, AS

Fall Prevention Awareness Week

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WHEREAS, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that more than one-third of all Americans age 65 and older will fall each year; and among older adults, falls are the leading cause of fatal injuries and the most common cause of nonfatal injuries and hospital admissions for trauma; and

   

WHEREAS, during 18 months, ending June 30, 2010, there were approximately 1,289 fall-related related 911 responses and more than 1,080 emergency medical transports because of falls by those age 65 and older in San Mateo County; and falls are the overall leading cause of death for those age 75 and older; and

   

WHEREAS, in California, more than a million seniors age 65 and older fall each year, with approximately 100,000 resulting in serious injuries or fatalities; and

   

WHEREAS, falls stem from a variety of factors, including age-related loss of strength, side effects of medication, reduced vision, chronic health conditions and unsafe physical surroundings; just the fear of falling can contribute to depression, isolation and loss of mobility and physical fitness, which can actually increase the risk of falls; and

   

WHEREAS, falls by older adults are preventable through advocacy, education and certain lifestyle adjustments, such as appropriate exercise to improve strength and balance, regular eye exams, improved lighting in the home and removal of hazards in the home that could cause falls.

   

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED that the Board of Supervisors of San Mateo County designates September 19-25, 2010, as Fall Prevention Awareness Week and encourages all residents of San Mateo County to work with family members and health care providers to identify and address the factors that could cause a fall-related injury for a loved one.

   

Dated: SEPTEMBER 14, 2010

   
 

SUPERVISORS:

 
   

RICHARD S. GORDON, PRESIDENT

   

MARK CHURCH

   


CAROLE GROOM

   


ROSE JACOBS GIBSON

   


ADRIENNE J. TISSIER

     
     

Attest:

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Deputy Clerk of the Board of Supervisors