How serious is the problem?

• In the United States, one of every three adults 65 year old or older falls each year.
  
• Falls are the leading cause of injury deaths among people 65 years and older.
  
• In 1998, about 9,600 people over the age of 65 died from fall-related injuries.
  

What health outcomes are linked with falls?

• Among older adults, falls are the most common cause of injuries and hospital admissions for traumas.
  
• Falls account for 87% of all fractures for people 65 years and older. They are also the second leading cause of spinal cord and brain injury among other adults.
  
• Each year in the United states, one person in 20 receives emergency treatment because of a fall.
  
• Among older adults, fractures are the most serious health outcomes associated with falls. About 3% of all falls cause fractures. The most common are fractures of the pelvis, hip, femur, vertebrae, humerus, hand, forearm, leg and ankle.