This past week a study was released in the esteemed Journal of the American Medical Association- Internal Medicine, which found the rate of falls is increasing in the elderly population.
Some quick findings from the study:
- Falling is the most frequently reported cause of injury for the elderly population
- The rate of reported falls in adults over 65 has increased nearly 30% from 1998-2010
- Falls were increased among the total spectrum of age groups (65-90), not just the eldest
- Roughly 1/3 of older adults fall each year
What we can take away:
When seniors slip and fall, trip and fall, or just fall, it can cause significant injuries that can lead to death and debilitation. From the results of this study, it becomes glaringly imperative to start including balance training at an earlier age. Balance training can strengthen the muscles that can prevent falls and create better spatial awareness in both the mind and body. Please visit our learning center for more information and exercises you can do to increase your balance and incorporate more balance training in your workouts. It could save your life.