Exercise and Older Adults

Worldwide, an estimated 424,000 people die each year from falls; the vast majority are from low- and middle-income countries. Additionally, an estimated 37.3 million falls require medical attention. Physical and occupational therapists also play an important role in decreasing the risk of falls in the elderly population. They can effectively develop exercise programs for the aging population and for special populations with specific diseases or conditions. These prescribed programs can improve an aging person’s functional activity levels, which can be seriously impacted by a fall, causing serious health consequences. Fall-prevention strategies can help decrease the risk of falls and improve overall health and functional ability in the aging population.