Fall 2006 Issue
Millions of Older Americans at Risk of Fatal Injuries from Falls
CDC Foundation Partnership Offers Innovative Approach to Prevention
For millions of older Americans, falls present a serious health risk. In fact, among older adults, falls are the leading cause of injury deaths and emergency room visits. From 1993 to 2003 fatal falls among people 65 and older increased by more than 55 percent - with more men dying from falls than women.
Research has identified a number of effective strategies that can reduce falls, such as exercising to improve lower body strength and balance, reducing the use of tranquillizers and sedatives, and adding handrails and lighting where appropriate in the home.
CDC’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control has developed educational materials to help deliver these important messages to seniors. Because of a partnership involving the CDC Foundation, CDC and the MetLife Foundation, a series of easy-to-read brochures and posters that provide tips for preventing falls in the home are now available in English, Spanish and Chinese.
The posters and brochures emphasize four major recommendations for seniors:
1. Make your home safer
2. Begin a regular exercise program
3. Have your health care provider review your medicines
4. Have your vision checked
"As America ages, we know that people can stay healthy and active for a long time. Teaming with CDC Foundation and MetLife Foundation to produce these materials is just one innovative approach to promoting the message that falls are preventable," says CDC National Center for Injury Prevention and Control director, Ileana Arias, Ph.D. "Fall-related injuries can reduce quality of life by limiting mobility and independence, as well as leading to other severe health problems. By using the information provided in these materials, older adults can help lower their chances of falling."
For more information on what you can do to prevent senior falls, or to download educational materials, please visit www.cdc.gov/injury.