MARSHFIELD, WI (WSAU) -- Wisconsin ranks "Number One' in the nation for deaths from falls among senior citizens.
That's according to Ciara Schultz from the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Central Wisconsin, who says that in Wood County alone nearly 700 people age 65 or older went to the emergency department as the result of a fall in 2017.
"Because of the growing population of seniors we are still 'Number One' in deaths related to falls for older adults," Schultz explained. "So it is a huge issue. It's becoming a public health crisis and we're really making sure that we're drawing attention to it."
So to try and change that worrisome statistic, Schultz says her agency is teaming-up with local first-responders who deal with the problem first-hand, like those at Marshfield Fire and Rescue. The result is a program called 'Stepping On.'
"So the first-responders became interested in the work that we're doing here at the ADRC, specifically around 'Stepping On,' which is a fall prevention program. And then, in partnership with the Marshfield Fire and Rescue Department, we offer that program in Marshfield twice a year," Schultz explained.
The 'Stepping On' program originated in Wisconsin back in 2006, and is now available in every county in the state. In addition, more than 20 other states nationwide have adopted the program.
To learn more about 'Stepping On,' to sign up for the next class starting in the Wausau area on May 14th, or to find one in your area, contact the ADRC of Central Wisconsin at 1-888-486-9545 or visit the Wisconsin Institute for Healthy Aging website at wihealthyaging.org.
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