Falls are leading cause of injury deaths for older adults

AORN Journal,  Feb, 2007  

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Among men and women 65 years of age or older, falls were the leading cause of injury deaths in 2003 (ie, more than 13,700 deaths), according to a Nov 16, 2006, news release from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Fatal falls increased more than 55% from 1993 to 2003, with more men than women dying from falls. In 2003, almost 1.8 million older adults were treated in emergency departments for nonfatal fall injuries and more than 460,000 were hospitalized. The direct medical costs for falls among older adults were approximately $19 billion.

Researchers suggest several measures for older adults to reduce their risk of falling. Older adults should exercise regularly, utilizing programs that increase strength and improve balance (eg, tai chi); ask physicians and pharmacists to review their prescription and over-the-counter medications to reduce side effects and interactions; visit the ophthalmologist or optometrist at least once a year; and make the home environment safer by eliminating hazards and improving lighting.

Falls Have Become the Leading Cause of Injury Deaths for Seniors [news release]. Atlanta: Centers far Disease Control and Prevention; November 16, 2006. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/od/oc/media/pressrel/r061116.htm. Accessed December 4, 2006.

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