In 2021, more than 38,000 older adults died of injuries related to falls.
The USPSTF is a voluntary group of experts who advise the U.S. government on preventive health measures.
Their recommendations are not binding, but are often followed by doctors.
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These classes emphasizegait,balance, functional training, resistance training, flexibility, and endurance.
The Task Force also found that multifactorial interventions may benefit some older adults in reducing fall risk.
The Task Force didnotrecommend vitamin D or calcium to prevent falls.
A review of studies showed no evidence that low-dose supplementation was effective in preventing falls in older adults.
The Task Force plans to publish a separate guideline on vitamin D and calcium supplementation, Li said.
Who Is Most at Risk for Falling?
Cameron said the rate of falls is increasing among younger age groups too, though researchers dont know why.
Research on exactly how much exercise is necessary to prevent falls in older adults is ongoing, Cameron said.
In the meantime, she suggests doing your best to make exercise part of your lifestyle.
I highly recommend checking out senior and community centers for the group classes being offered, said Cameron.
If classes are streamed online, you may be able to participate remotely.
What This Means For You
Falls can happen anywhere, including at home.
Published online June 4, 2024. doi:10.1001/jama.2024.8481
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About older adult fall prevention.
