As people age, they are more apt to fall, which increases the risk for fractures. One way many people are told to avoid a slip or trip is to reduce potential hazards for falling in the home, such as cluttered hallways and loose throw rugs. But a new study suggests that your overall health is more important in preventing a fall than whether or not you clean up the clutter. Research at Yale University's School of Medicine made the finding when they studied more than 1,000 people at least 72 years old. After 3 years, half of the participants did fall at least once.But these falls were not associated with any of 13 potential home hazards monitored by investigators.Instead, say scientists, the falls were more likely caused by health factors, including muscle weakness, impaired vision, use of certain medications and impaired balance.
Source: Tufts University Health & Nutrition Letter: February 2001
