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In the United States, one of every three persons
aged 65 years and older falls each year. Among older adults, falls
are the leading cause of injuries, hospital admissions and death.
About 11,000 seniors die every year from fall-related injuries.
Fractures are the most serious health consequence of falling.
Approximately 250,000 hip fractures occur each year among people
over age 65.
Many of these falls and resulting injuries could have been
prevented if a little more attention were paid to the situations
where falls can happen.
Strategies to prevent falls among
older adults:
- Exercise to improve individual strength, balance and
flexibility.
- Review medications; some can cause dizziness and affect
balance.
- Take an inventory of your home and make modifications that
reduce fall hazards. Install rails on staircases and in the
bathroom. Check your home for adequate lighting, and remove items
on the floor that may cause you to trip.
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 While rates of motor vehicle-related deaths and nonfatal injuries
vary by state, there are some common denominators: poor and
uncorrected vision, slow reaction time to potential danger, and side
effects from certain prescription drugs.
When your medicine's label warns "Do not operate heavy
equipment," that also means your car!
Pay attention out there, folks.
[Conrad F. Meier; published in
"It's Your Health"]
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