Despite extensive falls prevention campaigns and home safety adaptations, deaths from accidental falls are increasing at an alarming rate.
According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data published recently by USA Facts, death rates from accidental falls tripled from 2000 to 2023. Some of this can be attributed to our aging population. But, even when researchers adjust for age (removing the effect of having more older people), fall-related death rates have still risen significantly. This shows aging alone does not explain the trend.
American homes are adopting more aging in place designs that include grab rails and no-step entrances. Public health campaigns continue to promote falls prevention strategies. And ambulatory, cognitive and vision disabilities – key risk factors for falls - have actually declined among older adults since 2010, according to the American Community Survey.
So why are people falling, and why are falls more likely to be fatal?
Older adults today are more likely to live longer with chronic conditions, lower bone density, and greater frailty, increasing the risk that a fall results in a serious or deadly injury. Wider use of blood-thinning medications also means that head injuries from falls can be far more dangerous than in the past.
Other factors may include the increasing use of prescription drugs, especially those considered fall-risk increasing, like antidepressants. Rising alcohol consumption among older adults – especially binge drinking – may also be a consideration, as may be rising rates of obesity. Additionally, as awareness of fall risks has grown, deaths may be more accurately reported with falls listed as the primary cause.
What can you do to help prevent falls?
• Visit your health care providers. Review medications that could impair balance or movement, and discuss strategies to reduce risk. Address health and lifestyle factors that may contribute to falls. If you’re afraid of falling, say so. Get regular vision and hearing tests.
• Stay active. Try Tai Chi and Yoga to increase balance and flexibility. Incorporate strength training into your routine to maintain muscle and stability.
• Be a home safety sleuth. Walk around your home like a detective to discover and fix what might trip you up: scatter rugs, clutter, loose bricks on your front porch, bad lighting, electrical cords, even pets who follow you around. (Treat them to a new collar with a bell on it so you hear them coming.)
You don’t have to become a statistic. By understanding fall risks and taking proactive steps, you can protect your independence and health.