Did you know that over 10,000 people in the US turn 65 every day? Getting older doesn’t have to mean giving up your favorite hobbies and activities. Older adults are more active and mobile than ever, but an injury from a fall or motor vehicle crash can decrease their independence. It’s important for older adults and their caregivers to understand common injuries that can happen as we age and what they can do to prevent these injuries.
“Experiencing injuries doesn’t have to be a normal part of aging; many injuries that are common in older adults can be prevented. We know that injuries and deaths from falls and motor vehicle crashes are increasing in older adults. By taking proactive steps, you can prevent potentially life-changing injuries from happening and maintain your independence and mobility longer,” said Debra Houry, MD, MPH, director of CDC’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control.
Still Going Strong
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is launching Still Going Strong, a national campaign that brings attention to ways older adults (age 65 and older) can age without injury.
Still Going Strong speaks directly to older adults, age 65 and older, and their caregivers. The CDC’s goal is to raise awareness about preventable injuries among older adults. This campaign has two goals- educate and empower old adults.
Common injuries as we age
Traumatic brain injuries have never been more prevalent as the number of cases has increased 30% in the last 10 years. Unintentional injuries have traditionally been the 7th leading cause of death among adults age 65 and over. Falls and motor vehicle crashes result in the majority of TBI-related hospitalizations and deaths among older adults
A traumatic brain injury, or TBI, is an injury that affects how the brain works. It may be caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or penetrating head injury. Not all blows or jolts to the head result in a TBI. The severity of a TBI may range from mild, moderate, to severe, commonly referred to as ‘concussions’.
Aging without injury
Older adults can take simple steps to maintain their independence and mobility, such as talking to their health care providers about preventing falls and car crashes, removing throw rugs to make their home safer, and always wearing a seat belt while driving or riding in a vehicle.
Check out Still Going Strong today and learn how you can age with grace and without injury!
