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Older Adult Falls

Falls are a threat to the health of older adults and can reduce their ability to remain independent.

However, falls aren’t something that just happens when you age, there are proven ways to reduce falls.

Get the Facts

  • September 22 is Falls Prevention Awareness Day. #FPAD2017. Older adult falls are preventable.
  • Speak up! Talk to your doctor about fall risks and prevention.
  • Every 20 minutes an older adult dies from a fall in the United States. Many more are injured. Take a stand to prevent falls. STEADI www.cdc.gov/steadi
  • Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injury
  • STEADI Materials include case studies and tips for talking with patients, instructional videos and online trainings, screening tools, educational materials for patients and their friends and family.
  • Exercise focusing on leg strength and balance can help prevent falls

New Releases

CDC Expert Commentary

Thumbnail image of Medscape video on older adult falls

Are You Asking Older Adult Patients the Right Questions?

By asking three simple questions and taking action—when needed—you can reduce the risk of falling.
Free Medscape login required.
View Video

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Older Adult Falls: A Growing Burden. STEADI: Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths & Injuries. 2014: 46M total older adults, 7M injuries, 29M falls. 2030: 74M total older adults, 12M injuries, 49M falls

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