Brochures, posters offered to help prevent falls

For older adults, a fall can often spell disaster. Onethird of Americans ages 65 and older fall each year. Millions are injured, many of them seriously, as a result. The injuries sustained can rob older adults of their mobility and independence and lead to premature death. In 2004, nearly 15,000 people 65 and older died from falls.

But falls are not an inevitable part of aging. Older adults and those who care for them can take steps to lower their risk of falls and fall-related injuries and protect their independence.

These steps are outlined in two consumer-friendly brochures and four posters from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These fullcolor, easytoread products, developed in partnership with the CDC Foundation and MetLife Foundation, are available in English, Spanish and Chinese.

Examples of fall-prevention tips for older adults include the following:

•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.

CDC reports that the death rate from falls among older adults has increased significantly over the past decade. With the growing population of seniors in the United States, this trend can be expected to continue unless efforts are made to prevent falls.

CDC's fallprevention brochures and posters are available to organizations and individuals free of charge at www.cdc.gov or call (800) CDC-INFO.

This article is provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.