Falls are common in people aged over 65 years, and are a leading cause of injury in this age group. They can have serious consequences, including trauma, pain, impaired function, and loss of confidence in carrying out everyday activities. They can also result in a loss of independence and autonomy.
According to the NSW Department of Health:
- More than 1 in 4 people aged 65 years or over have at least 1 fall per year, and many fall more than once
- Each year, falls in NSW lead to approximately 27,000 hospitalisations
- Falls are the most commonly reported adverse event among hospital inpatients
- Non-injurious falls can still have negative impacts such as loss of confidence and activity restriction
- Having had a recent fall is one of the leading reasons for premature admission to residential aged care