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Falls Among Older Adults

Among adults 65 years and older, falls are the leading cause of injury deaths and the most common cause of nonfatal injuries and hospital admissions for trauma. Over the past decade, injury and death rates from falls have increased significantly. Given the nation’s aging populations, this trend can be expected to continue unless steps are taken to prevent falls among older adults. 

New Tools for Fall Reduction 

CDC’s Injury Center offers new tools for helping older adults—and those who care for them—prevent falls. Two popular CDC brochures have been redesigned in partnership with the CDC Foundation and the MetLife Foundation and four new posters have been created to help educate older adults about fall reduction.

Colorful and easy-to-read, the brochures and posters outline key strategies for reducing older adults’ risk of falls and related injuries. The strategies include:

• Exercising regularly. Exercise programs like Tai Chi that increase strength and improve balance are especially good.
• Asking their doctor or pharmacist to review their medicines—both prescription and over-the-counter—to reduce side effects and interactions.
• Having their eyes checked by an eye doctor at least once a year.
• Making their homes safer by eliminating fall hazards and improving lighting.

The brochures and posters are available in English, Spanish, and Chinese. Download or order free copies at www.cdc.gov/ncipc/duip/fallsmaterial.htm. These materials are important resources to protect the health and independence of older adults. 

Facts About Falls 

To learn more about falls among older adults, please see the fact sheet Falls Among Older Adults: An Overview

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