National Falls Prevention Strategy: Improving Safety and Home Modifications for Seniors.
This law establishes a National Advisory Committee tasked with creating an integrated plan to combat falls and related injuries among older Americans, directly improving their safety and quality of life. The Committee must coordinate federal prevention programs and recommend Medicare pilot programs that could cover the costs of basic home modifications to enhance safety. Citizens can expect better coordination of services and potential access to funding for home changes that reduce injury risk.
Key points
Establishment of an expert committee (including caregivers and consumer advocates) to develop a nationwide strategy for falls prevention and coordinate government efforts.
Requirement to recommend Medicare pilot programs that could fund basic home safety modifications (e.g., grab bars, ramps) for seniors to reduce fall risks.
Mandate for regular evaluation of all federal prevention programs and public campaigns to ensure effectiveness and lower healthcare costs under Medicare and Medicaid.
Improved coordination of falls prevention research and services across federal agencies like the CDC, NIH, and Department of Veterans Affairs.
Expired
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