Silver linings: Better balance, safer life
Deseret News
Last updated: June 9, 2026
The article discusses the significant risk of falls among older adults, using a personal anecdote of a cycling accident as an introduction. It emphasizes that falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths in this demographic and highlights common causes beyond cycling, such as falls from ladders and household hazards.
- Key Facts: Over 14 million adults over 65 experience serious falls annually in the U.S.
- Falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths for adults over 65.
- Common fall causes include ladders, slips on rugs or ice, stairs, clutter, uneven steps, and getting out of furniture.
- Preventative measures focus on enhancing balance through exercises like standing on one leg and planks, and reducing household hazards.
- Strengthening core muscles improves stability and the ability to "catch" oneself during imbalance.
- Home safety audits can identify and mitigate risks from rugs, lighting, and clutter.
- Ensuring good eyesight and hearing is also crucial for identifying hazards.
- The article stresses that falls are preventable and not an inevitable part of aging.
