Rehab

Fear increases risk of falling

Rehab Regs, June 2, 2005

Most older adults, especially African American women, who have undergone emergency-room care for a fall were found to have a strong fear of falling, actually increasing their risk of experiencing another fall. This fear is linked to lower self-confidence and poorer balance and stability, according to the Medical Letter on the CDC & FDA. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, every hour, fall-related injuries send 183 older adults to the emergency room, and one of these individuals dies as a result of the fall. Wrist and hip fractures, as well as head trauma, lead the list of injuries. Experts suggest that enjoyable physical activities can help both in preventing falls and also in reducing fear of falling, reported the Medical Letter.

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