Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries to older people in the United States. Each year, more than 11 million people older than 65 years of age fall. This is one of every three senior citizens.

Treatment of the injuries and complications associated with these falls costs the United States $20.2 billion annually. A serious national problem now, falls could reach epidemic levels as the population ages in the future.

• Older women - especially Caucasians and Asians
• Seniors unable to stand on one leg for more than five seconds
• Users of multiple prescription and over-the-counter drugs
• Elderly people who live alone

Falls can occur anytime, anyplace, and to anyone while doing everyday activities such as climbing stairs or getting out of a bathtub or shower.

• 60 percent: home
• 30 percent: community
• 10 percent: in institutions, such as nursing homes

A fall can be a major life-changing event, decreasing your mobility and independence. It can lead to hospitalization. Forty percent of nursing home admissions are due to falls. The number of falls and the severity of injury increase with age.

• Eliminate tripping hazards in your home and install handrails, grab bars and other safety devices.
• Engage in regular, moderate amounts of physical activity to maintain your strength, coordination, agility and balance.
• Get an eye examination and physical each year.
• Check with your doctor(s) about side effects of all your prescription and over-the-counter medications.
• Wear properly fitting shoes with nonskid soles.
• Obtain adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D.
• Avoid excessive alcohol intake; do not smoke.