Injuries Among Older AdultsInjury
and violence are a serious
threat to the health and well-being of Americans ages 65 and older.
Older adults are at higher risk for many types of injuries that can
lead to death or disability. Through research and a wide range of
activities, CDC's Injury Center is working to protect older Americans
from the threat of injury. Below is a directory of links to more
information about the types of injury and violence that pose the
greatest threat to older adults in the United States.
-
Elder Abuse / Maltreatment
As the United States population grows older, more and more people
become vulnerable and are dependant on others to meet their most basic
needs. A study conducted in 1996 found that more than 500,000 persons
age 60 years and older were the victims of abuse or neglect during a
one-year period.
-
Falls Among Older Adults
Falls are the leading cause of injury death for Americans 65 years and older. Each year, about 35% to 40% of adults 65 and older fall at least once.
- Older Adult Drivers
In the United States today, there are about 26 million licensed drivers ages 65 years and older. It is estimated that this number will increase to 40 million by the year 2020.
-
Residential Fire-Related Injuries
Adults ages 65 years and older are among those at highest risk for residential fire deaths and injuries.
-
Sexual Abuse Among Older Adults
Too often, violence involves sexual acts that are forced upon
individuals against their will. These acts can be physical (e.g.
rape), verbal (e.g. harassment), or psychological (e.g.
exhibitionism). Anyone can be a victim of sexual violence, even the
elderly. Unfortunately, little is known about sexual abuse in persons
over the age of 60.
-
Suicide
Among Older Adults
Suicide rates increase with age and are
very high among those 65 years and older.
-
Traumatic
Brain Injury (TBI)
People age 75 and older are in one of the age groups at highest
risk for TBI.
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