{"meta":{"status":200,"messages":[],"pagination":{"max":1,"offset":0,"count":1,"total":1,"pageNum":1,"totalPages":1,"sort":null,"currentUrl":"https://api.digitalmedia.hhs.gov/api/v2/resources/media.json?offset=0&max=1&ignoreHiddenMedia=1&format=json&id=6920&newUrlBase=http://www.cdc.gov/HomeandRecreationalSafety/Falls","nextUrl":null,"previousUrl":null}},"results":[{"content":"
\nEach year, millions of older people\u2014those 65 and older\u2014fall. In fact, more than one out of four older people falls each year, 1 but less than half tell their doctor. 2 Falling once doubles your chances of falling again. 3
\nMany falls do not cause injuries. But one out of five falls does cause a serious injury such as a broken bone or a head injury.4,5 These injuries can make it hard for a person to get around, do everyday activities, or live on their own.
\nResearch has identified many conditions that contribute to falling. These are called risk factors. Many risk factors can be changed or modified to help prevent falls. They include:
\nMost falls are caused by a combination of risk factors. The more risk factors a person has, the greater their chances of falling.
\nHealthcare providers can help cut down a person\u2019s risk by reducing the fall risk factors listed above.
\n \nFalls can be prevented. These are some simple things you can do to keep yourself from falling.
\nDo exercises that make your legs stronger and improve your balance. Tai Chi is a good example of this kind of exercise.
\nHave your eyes checked by an eye doctor at least once a year, and be sure to update your eyeglasses if needed.
\nIf you have bifocal or progressive lenses, you may want to get a pair of glasses with only your distance prescription for outdoor activities, such as walking. Sometimes these types of lenses can make things seem closer or farther away than they really are.
\n\n
For more information about how you can prevent falls, check out some of our online STEADI resources for older adults.
\nThese resources include:
\n \n