Between 1993 and 2003, the rate of fatal falls increased significantly for people age 65 and older, investigators at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report. During that same period, the rate of hospitalization for fall-related hip fractures decreased, while that for overall non-fatal injuries remained fairly stable.
Falls in the elderly are common and can lead to death, disability, nursing home admission, and direct medical costs. However, there are measures that seniors and their families can take to reduce the risk of falls.
To analyze trends in falls and their consequences, Dr. J. A. Stevens and colleagues reviewed statistics between 1993 and 2003 and from 2001 to 2005. Data were derived from the Vital Statistics of the United States, death certificates, the National Hospital Discharge Survey, and the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System-All Injury Program.
According to the findings in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, the age-adjusted rate of fatal falls rose from 23.7 to 38.8 per 100,000 people during the 10-year study period, a 55.3 percent increase. Although rates of change tended to be higher among women, men had more fatal falls throughout that period. For example, in 2003, the rates per 100,000 were 46.2 for men and 32.8 for women.
Between 1993 and 1996, the rate of hospitalization for hip fracture rose, then dipped, for an overall decrease of 15.5 percent.
Stevens’ group points out that one reason for the rise in fatal falls may be partially due to seniors’ greater longevity. However, more are living with chronic disease that puts them at increased risk for falling and for dying from injures sustained during a fall.
In response to these trends, the CDC and partners have created posters and brochures outlining ways that seniors can reduce their risk of falling. These include getting regular exercise, having medications reviewed to reduce their side effects and interactions, having yearly eye examinations, and reducing fall hazards in the home.
