Backup Documents 09/14/2021 Item # 4A 4A
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, Florida has the highest percent of citizens age 65 and older in the United
States; and falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries in this
population in Florida; and
WHEREAS, falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries among Florida's
older population, accounting for 58 percent of the fatal traumatic brain
injuries; and
WHEREAS, falls can lead to depression, loss of mobility, and loss of functional
independence; and
WHEREAS, in 2020 the average hospitalization charge for an unintentional fall among
Florida residents age 65 and older was $42,852; and
WHEREAS, the financial toll for older adult falls is expected to increase as the population
ages and is estimated to reach $101 billion nationally by 2030; and
WHEREAS, evidence-based programs reduce falls by utilizing strategies such as exercise
programs, balance screenings, medication management, vision improvement,
reduction of home hazards, and falls prevention education; and
WHEREAS, the Lee County Trauma Services District serves a five-county region in
Southwest Florida (Charlotte, Collier, Hendry, Glades and Lee) and partners
with the local non-profit organization "Step Smart" to provide awareness,
education, and a multidisciplinary approach to preventing falls;
NOW THEREFORE, be it proclaimed by the Board of County Commissioners of Collier
County, Florida, that September 22, 2021 be designated as
FALLS PREVENTION AWARENESS DAY IN COLLIER COUNTY
DONE AND ORDERED THIS 14th Day of September 2021.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
COLLIER COUNTY, FLORIDA
/ / w
PENNY T OR, AIRMAN