HJAR Jul/Aug 2026

42 JUL / AUG 2026 I  HEALTHCARE JOURNAL OF ARKANSAS ADH CORNER COLUMN ADH CORNER FALLS are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations inArkansas. For many older adults, a fall can change life in an instant. A simple stumble in the home or loss of balance while walking can lead to broken bones, head injury, loss of independence, lengthy rehabilitation, and serious health complications. The good news is that many falls are preventable. Healthcare providers can play an important role in helping Arkansans stay active, independent, and safe as they age. Falls Lead Injury Hospitalizations in Arkansas According to theArkansas Department of Health’s (ADH) latest report, Arkansas Injury Hospitalizations Statistics 2016–2023 , there were 12,679 injury-related hospitalizations in Arkansas in 2023. Falls accounted for 8,641 of those hospitalizations — far more than any other cause. Motor vehicle crashes resulted in 1,442 hospitalizations, followed by 1,359 from self-inflicted injuries, 891 from unintentional poisoning, and 346 from assault. Since 2016, the five leading causes of injury-related hospitalizations in Arkansas have remained largely unchanged: falls, motor vehicle crashes, self-inflicted injuries, unintentional poisoning, and assault. Preventing Falls Before They Happen Even though aging increases fall risk, falls are not an inevitable part of growing old- er. One of the best ways for older adults to reduce their risk of falling is to stay physi- cally active. Activities that improve strength, PUBLIC HEALTH PARTNERSHIPS PROMOTE Fall Prevention and Injury Reduction Statewide