- 1/3 of community dwelling adults aged 65+ fall each year
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1/2 of adults aged 75+ fall each year
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Unintentional injury is the 5th leading cause of death among adults, and falls are the most common cause of death in that category
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55% of falls occur in the home environment
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23% of falls occur outside of, but close to, the home environment
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Falls are among the most common/serious problems facing adults
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Falls are associated with considerable mortality, morbidity, decreased function, premature nursing home admission
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Falls are the most common injury among Washington state residents aged 65+
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5% of falls result in hospitalization
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75+ year olds who fall are 4-5 times more likely to be admitted to a long-term care facility within one year