Status: Baseline only
Most Recent Data:
6,052.2
emergency department visits for falls per 100,000 adults
(2016)
Target:
5,447 per 100,000
Desired Direction:
Decrease desired
Baseline:
6,052.2 emergency department visits for falls per 100,000 adults aged 65 years and over occurred in 2016
Reduce the rate of emergency department visits due to falls among older adults
Data Source: Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project - Nationwide Emergency Department Sample (HCUP-NEDS), AHRQ
Summary
Falls are the leading cause of injury in older adults, and many older adults go to the emergency department after falling. Older adults are more likely to fall if they have balance problems, poor vision, or dementia — or if they take several medications. Physical activity programs and home safety interventions may help prevent fall-related emergency department visits in older adults.
Workgroup: Older Adults Workgroup