Falling is a leading cause of injury in older New Mexicans

SANTA FE – As New Mexico observes Fall Prevention Awareness Week September 21-25, state health officials urge residents to take action against the leading cause of injury-related deaths, hospitalizations and emergency room visits for New Mexicans 65 years and older. 

In 2024, New Mexico recorded 207 unintentional fall‑related deaths, with 86% occurring among adults aged 65 and older, according to the most recent available data from the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH). 

As New Mexico’s 65-and-older population climbs past 20% — on track to rank fourth nationally by 2030 — the urgency for local fall prevention has never been higher. 

Recent data shows a promising 41% drop in fall-related deaths between 2020 and 2024, leaving New Mexico's death rate 30% lower than the national average. However, non-fatal injuries are surging. Between 2020 and 2019, the age-adjusted hospitalization rate for falls increased by 11%.  Between 2020-2024, there was a staggering 51% spike in emergency room visits among older adults due to falls.

“Most fall-related injuries can be prevented with training and exercise,” said Dr. Miranda Durham, Chief Medical Officer for NMDOH. “Building physical strength, balance and mobility is the absolute best defense for adults of any age.” 

NMDOH recommends: 

• Find a good exercise program to build balance, strength and flexibility. Contact 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773) or text 66364 (NMDOH) to find a class near you.  
• Ask your health care provider for an assessment of your risk of falling and be sure to share your history of any recent falls. 
• Regularly review your medications with your health care provider and pharmacist to ensure side effects don’t increase your risk of falling. 
• Get your vision and hearing checked annually and update your eyeglasses. 
• Keep your home safe by removing trip hazards, increasing lighting, securing handrails and installing grab bars in key areas. 

“A serious fall can affect an older adult’s mobility and independence long after the initial injury,” said Dr. Angelina Flores-Montoya, deputy secretary for the New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department. “Prevention can help older New Mexicans remain active, independent, and safe in their homes and communities.” 

If you are a caregiver or family member of someone 65 years of age or older here are some steps you can take: 

• Speak with your family member about whether they are concerned about falling.
• Ask about current health conditions and medications to help assess their risk.
• Remind them to get annual vision and hearing checks.
• Do a walk-through of their home and help address any safety upgrades such as better lighting or the need for grab bars.
• Notice if your older family member is holding onto walls, furniture or other people when walking or they otherwise have difficulty walking or rising from a chair.

Older New Mexicans can stay healthy and independent by checking their risk for falling at the National Council for Aging’s Falls Free CheckUp. New Mexicans can also contact New Mexico Aging at 800-432-2080 for help connecting to local services and programs that support healthy aging and independence, including senior centers, nutrition programs, transportation, and other community-based resources.

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Las caídas son una de las principales causas de lesiones entre los adultos mayores de Nuevo México