Falls and fractures among people aged 65 and over account for over 4 million hospital bed days each year in England alone (Falls prevention exercise: following the evidence Age UK). The associated healthcare costs are estimated at £2 billion per annum. Care home residents account for up to 20% of hip fracture admissions.
Falls resulting in injury are the leading cause of accident-related mortality among older people. After a fall, an older person has a 50% chance of having seriously impaired mobility and a 10% chance of dying within a year.
Physical exercise/ activity plays a vital role within falls prevention in older adults and this is supported by both government recommended guidelines (30 mins of exercise five or more times a week) and AgeUK who advise undertaking activities to improve muscle strength and balance training.