Falls and the elderly
Key facts Nearly 1 in 3 older Australians have experienced a fall in the past 12 months. Falls usually happen because gradual changes to our bodies make walking difficult, or they can be caused by hazards in and around the home. Falls can cause hip fractures and other injuries that require lengthy hospital care and long-term effects. See your doctor for a check-up if you have ever fallen before, even if you weren’t injured as a result. Why are falls a particular concern for older people? Anyone can have a fall, but falls are a major health concern for older people (those