Fall Prevention

From Senior Planet Resource Exchange

Falling is the 14th cause of death in men. According to a ten year study
(1993-2003) done by the U.S. Center for Disease Control, the most common cause for these
fatalities were brain trauma and injuries to the legs and hips.
Of the non-fatal falls, women account for 58% of them with 80% of these falls
coming from hip fractures. Two-thirds of men and women who fall will fall again
within six months.
The CDC estimates that these falls cost Americans $12 Billion in hospitalizations,
$4 Billion in Emergency Room visits, and $3 Billion in out patient treatments.
What was not factored into this report by the CDC was the inpact on the lost
quality of life resulting from these falls.

[edit] Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition which causes bones to loose their density. It is
debatable whether brittle bones break first causing the fall or, if the person
falls and sustains the break. Osteoporosis is the main cause for fractures in
elderly women.

[edit] Preventing Osteoporosis

1. Calcium-Foods rich in calcium: milk, yogurt, cheese, shell fish, broccoli,
soy beans, tofu, and almonds.
2. Vitamin D is taken to enhance absorption of calcium.
3. Exercise-Resistive exercise should be done regularly.