Falls Are Leading Cause of Injury to Seniors
Nov. 3 -- SUNDAY, Nov. 2 (HealthDay News) -- Former first lady Nancy Reagan and Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama's grandmother have suffered recent pelvic and hip injuries. And on Friday, author Studs Terkel died, following reports that a fall two weeks ago had hastened his decline.
Such news, experts say, should be a reminder to all about the need to help the elderly protect themselves against their increased risk of falls and bone injuries.
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, one in every three Americans older than 65 experiences a fall, making it the leading cause of injuries to seniors.
To help prevent falls and bone fractures, the academy recommends that seniors:
More information
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons has more about hip fractures and falls prevention.
SOURCE: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, news release, Oct. 22, 2008