Rising fatal falls among elderly
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Recent research published in the medical journal JAMA highlights an alarming increase in fatal falls among Americans over 75, with longer lifespans and chronic conditions as likely contributors. Additionally, the medications many older adults take can increase their risk of falling. Essential prevention tips include maintaining physical fitness to improve balance and strength, ensuring homes are free from tripping hazards, and using assistive walking devices when necessary. Regular health checks to assess vision and hearing are also crucial in preventing falls in elderly.
Source
Hartholt KA, Lee R, Burns ER, van Beeck EF. Mortality From Falls Among US Adults Aged 75 Years or Older, 2000-2016. JAMA. 2019;321(21):2131–2133. doi:10.1001/jama.2019.4185
Additional Reading
https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2023/05/22/fatal-falls-older-americans/
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/06/04/health/falls-elderly-prevention-deaths.html