Q
: As my wife and I get older we are concerned about the risk of falling. Are there any steps we can take to minimize our chances of falling?
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Answer: Falls can certainly be a concern for some adults as we age. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 1 in 4 Americans 65 years of age or older falls each year. Falls are one of the most common reasons for hospital admissions among older adults.
There are many reasons why falls are more prevalent among seniors. Generally, we all lose some coordination, flexibility and balance as we age, which can make us more susceptible to falling. Medical conditions, such as ear disorders can adversely affect balance, as well. In addition, osteoporosis, which causes bone weakness, can contribute to falling and more serious results like broken bones.