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September Tips of the Month: Healthy
Aging Month - Fall Prevention
Falls are the most common cause of
accidents over 65 years of age and the leading cause of
mortality due to the injury. One out of every three elderly
adults fall per year. Falls are responsible for approximately
200,000 hip fractures resulting in 10,000 deaths annually. Those
at greatest risk are 75 years of age and older. Eighty-five
percent of falls occur in the home.
One of the contributing
factors to increased falls in the older population is decreased
activity and exercise. This leads to diminished muscle tone.
Just small increases of activity and exercise can improve muscle
tone and decrease the chance of falling. Exercise is important
because it can strengthen our bones, muscles and heart.
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