Photo for Headline Surfer / Halifax Health Hospital launches Falls Prevention program with local YMCA branches in greater Daytona Beach, Florida.
By HENRY FREDERICK / Headline Surfer
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- Halifax Health announces the launch of the region’s most comprehensive Falls Prevention and Assessment Program, now available at local YMCA locations.
This program is designed to address one of the most pressing health concerns for older adults: preventing falls that can lead to serious injury or even death.
Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults, with millions of Americans aged 65 and older experiencing falls each year. In response to this alarming statistic, Halifax Health has taken proactive measures by offering a multi-faceted approach to fall prevention, starting with a free online Fall Risk Assessment followed by a thorough in-person evaluation for those identified as high-risk.
Every year, approximately 36 million falls are reported among older adults, leading to over 32,000 deaths. One in five falls results in serious injuries such as broken bones or head trauma.
Recognizing the critical need for effective fall prevention strategies, Halifax Health has partnered with Palmer Chiropractic Clinic, Brooks Rehabilitation, Atlantic Hearing, and the Volusia Flagler YMCA to bring this comprehensive assessment program directly to the community.
This initiative has three parts: a free online assessment, an in-person comprehensive assessment, and community-offered interventions. According to Halifax Health, it is the most detailed and holistic falls assessment available in the region.
For those identified as high-risk, the program offers a variety of follow-up options tailored to individual needs and preferences: balance training, safe falling techniques, physical therapy, hearing treatments, and strength training.
Participants will be free to choose from these options based on their comfort level and personal preferences, ensuring a supportive and effective approach to fall prevention.
Heather Bowyer, a chiropractic physician and Dean of Clinics at Palmer College Chiropractic, emphasized the role of chiropractic care in fall prevention: "Chiropractic interventions can play a crucial role in maintaining balance and mobility, which are key factors in preventing falls. By addressing misalignments and improving joint function, we help individuals move more confidently and reduce their risk of falling."
Heather Bowyer, a chiropractic physician and Dean of Clinics at Palmer College Chiropractic, emphasized the role of chiropractic care in fall prevention: "Chiropractic interventions can play a crucial role in maintaining balance and mobility, which are key factors in preventing falls. By addressing misalignments and improving joint function, we help individuals move more confidently and reduce their risk of falling."
Older adults and their caregivers are encouraged to begin by completing the free online Fall Risk Assessment, which offers immediate insights into their fall risk level. Those identified as high-risk will be invited to participate in the in-person assessment at the YMCA, ensuring they receive the most comprehensive evaluation and support available.
To take the online Fall Risk Assessment or to learn more about the Falls Prevention and Assessment Program, visit https://halifaxhealth.org/
About the Headline Surfer Byline Writer: Henry Frederick is an award-winning journalist who launched Headline Surfer in 2008, which serves greater Daytona Beach, Sanford & Orlando via