Objectives: California Death records (1990-1998) were analyzed for trends in fall mortality among the elderly. Falls account for 20% of injury deaths among those aged 55+. The rate of fall mortality increased 23% among those aged 55+.
Methods: Data on fall deaths were abstracted. Data were analyzed to determine who was at greatest risk. Factors analyzed included age, gender, race, and type of fall.
Results: During the past nine years there were 9,560 deaths due to falls, 77% or 7,392 of these were to victims over the age of 54.
While males were at greatest risk, the number of deaths is similar. Males were more likely to die due to falls from heights while females were more likely to die from falls from a chair or as a result of a fracture.
The risk of fall mortality increased with age. Males aged 85+ were at greatest risk (118.53 /100,000 population). Most types of falls increased with age except those due to riskier behavior.
Conclusions: By 2050 it is estimated that 1 in 5 Americans will be elderly. Most of this growth will occur between 2010 and 2030 as the "baby boomers" enter old age. For every death there are eight patients discharged from the hospital with injuries due to a fall. Many of these fall injuries and deaths could be prevented by following the CDC guidelines: begin a regular exercise program, make your home safer, have your health care provider review your medicines, and have your vision checked.
Learning Objectives: 1. Understand patterns of fall mortality in the elderly. 2. Be aware of recent trends in fall mortality in the elderly. 3. Understand methodology used to study the impact of fall deaths. 4. Identify changes they can make in their homes to reduce the risk of a fall.
Keywords: Elderly, Injury Risk
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.