Preventing Falls: How to Develop Community-Based Fall Prevention Programs for Older Adults

摘要

Falls are a major threat to the health and independence of older adults, people aged 65 and older. Each year in the United States, nearly one-third of older adults experience a fall. Falls can be devastating. About one out of ten falls among older adults result in a serious injury, such as a hip fracture or head injury, that requires hospitalization. In addition to the physical and emotional pain, many people need to spend at least a year recovering in a long-term care facility. Some never return to their homes. Falls can be deadly. Falls are the leading cause of injury deaths among older adults. The rate of fall-related deaths among older adults in the United States has risen significantly over the past decade. In 2004, falls were responsible for 14,900 deaths. Falls are costly. Fall-related injuries among older adults, especially among older women, are associated with substantial economic costs. In 2000, direct medical costs for fatal and nonfatal fall injuries totaled $19 billion. As the number of older adults increases dramatically over the next few decades, so will the economic burden of falls.Falls are preventable. The opportunity to help reduce falls among older adults has never been better. Today, there are effective fall prevention interventions that can be used in community settings. By offering effective fall prevention programs in our communities, we can reduce falls and help older adults live better, longer lives.