About Falls

Each year, more than 1.6 million older U.S. adults go to emergency departments for fall-related injuries. Among older adults, falls are the number one cause of fractures, hospital admissions for trauma, loss of independence, and injury deaths.

Fractures caused by falls can lead to hospital stays and disability. Most often, fall-related fractures are in the person's hip, pelvis, spine, arm, hand, or ankle.

Hip fractures are one of the most serious types of fall injury. They are a leading cause of medical problems and death among older adults. Only half of older adults hospitalized for a broken hip can return home or live on their own after the injury. Osteoporosis, a disease that involves loss of bone mass, increases the chance of hip and other fractures if a person falls.

Many older adults are afraid of falling. This fear becomes more common as people age, even among those who haven't fallen. It may lead older people to avoid activities such as walking, shopping, or taking part in social activities.

If you're worried about falling, talk with your doctor or another health care provider. Your doctor might refer you to a physical therapist, or PT. A PT can help you improve your balance and walking and help build your walking confidence. Getting rid of your fear of falling can help you to stay active, maintain your physical health, and prevent future falls.

If you fall, be sure to discuss the fall with your doctor, even if you aren't hurt. Many underlying causes of falls can be treated or corrected. For example, falls can be a sign of a problem with your medicines that can be corrected. They can also be a sign of a manageable disease or other problem, such as diabetes or low blood pressure when you stand.

After a fall, your doctor may suggest physical therapy, use of a walking aid, or other steps to help prevent future falls. These steps can also make you more confident in your abilities.