Falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among people 65 years and older, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Falls are also the most common cause of nonfatal injuries and hospital admissions for trauma among seniors.
On April 23, 2008 the President signed the Safety of Seniors Act that will expand research and public education on senior safety, particularly falls. The federal law directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to expand research, demonstration projects, and studies of falls and the effects of falls on health care costs.
Did you know that more than one-third of adults 65 and older fall each year in the United States? Among older adults, falls are the leading cause of injury deaths. They are also the most common cause of nonfatal injuries and hospital admission for trauma (CDC, 2006). In 2005, 15,800 people 65 and older died [...]
Old people fall. Period. In listening to Community Ed alumni recently, some have had challenges in California where the Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD) is expecting strong intervention. While we all want the best care for our residents, we must understand we will never eliminate falls. To lead families, residents, or [...]