Risk factors for falls among adults and seniors

Falls among seniors are a major public health issue. Approximately 1 in 3 persons aged 65 years or older fall at least once each year. In Canada, falls account for 85% of all injury-related hospitalizations among seniors and result in an average length of stay of 15 days, which is 70% longer than all other causes of hospitalization combined. Fall-related injuries are associated with significant disability, reduced mobility and independence, and increased risk of premature death. In order to prevent falls, many adults and seniors employ assistive devices for added stability and security, but the role of consumer products in fall-related injuries in adults and seniors has not been comprehensively studied. This project will look at the prevalence of injuries and consumer product use among adults 45 and older, the relationship between injuries and consumer products, and projected estimates of injuries and consumer product use of this age group into the year 2025.