Many older people are most concerned about slipping or falling when outside, especially in icy or snowy conditions. In fact, most falls occur at home when people are engaged in their regular daily activities. Here are some other statistics about falls:

• 70% of fall-related deaths involve people over age 75.
• 30% of people over age 65 fall each year.
• Annual health care costs for acute medical care associated with fall-related fractures are estimated to be $20 billion nationwide.
• Unintentional injury (including falls) is the sixth leading cause of death among people over age 65.

If you answer NO to any of the questions below, you may be at risk for injury due to a fall:

• Do you exercise regularly to improve muscle flexibility and strength?
• Have you removed rugs that may cause you to trip and fall?
• Do you use a night light to walk safely in the dark?
• Do you keep snow and ice cleared from your entrances and sidewalks?
• Do you wear non-slip, low-heeled shoes or slippers that fit snugly?
• Do you take any medicine that can make you drowsy and unsteady on your feet?
• Do you have your hearing and eyesight tested regularly and wear aids to correct any of these problems?

You may want to check out the Center For Healthy Aging on this site. The Center specifically focuses on the health needs of Medica's senior members.

For more information about reducing falls or about related classes and other resources available through Medica, click on one of the following.

Medica CallLink

Note to Employers and Brokers:
For more information on health improvement activities and programs for the workplace, e-mail us at: hlthimp@medica.com