Falls in Older Adults
Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries in older adults.[i] More than one in four older adults fall every year and less than half will tell their doctor.[ii] Nearly 1 out of 5 falls cause a serious injury such as a broken bone or a head injury.[iii] Many older adults who fall even if they are not injured develop a fear of falling and reduce their activity which in turn increases their risk for falling. Falls can lead to a loss of independence and ability to perform everyday activities. With more than 10,000 Americans turning 65 each day, falls are a growing and significant public health problem.