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Editor's e-Note
Data over a 12-year span from 1998 to 2010 show a significant increase in the number of falls among adults aged 65 and older. But findings indicate a boost in falls across the entire age spectrum rather than among only the oldest old as researchers anticipated.

In addition to reading our e-newsletter, be sure to visit Today’s Geriatric Medicine’s website at www.TodaysGeriatricMedicine.com, where you’ll find news and information that’s relevant and reliable. We welcome your feedback at TGMeditor@gvpub.com. Follow Today’s Geriatric Medicine on Facebook and Twitter, too.

— Barbara Worthington, editor
e-News Exclusive
Study Suggests Increase in Falls Among the Elderly

During a 12-year period, the prevalence of falls among older adults appeared to be on the rise, according to a new nationally representative study.

Falling is the most frequent cause of injury among older adults and each year about one-third of older adults fall. Researchers analyzed data from 1998 to 2010 among adults aged 65 and older and found an 8% increase in falls, which translates to a relative increase of nearly 30%. The findings appeared earlier this year in JAMA Internal Medicine.

“We expected an increase because older adults are getting older, and there are more 80- and 90-year-old adults than before, but we were very surprised to find that the increase in falls was not due to the changing demography,” says lead author Christine Cigolle, MD, MPH, an assistant professor in the departments of family medicine and internal medicine at the University of Michigan (U-M) and a research scientist at the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center.

Full story »
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In this e-Newsletter
Tech & Tools
MedCenter Systems
MedCenter Systems has released a device to help with proper dosage and timing of medication. The system focuses on listing the date rather than day of the week, which helps users who may be unsure whether it is Monday or Tuesday. Designed by an inventor who was inspired by his father who forgot to take his medication, the device encourages and improves adherence. Learn more »

TruVue Heel Protector
The TruVue Heel Protector is constructed with an antishear pad. The Achilles pillow is positioned under the Achilles tendon to provide heel elevation and to cushion the tendon from pressure locations. The protector securely holds the leg and foot in place while allowing for full range of motion. Caregivers can use it to pull the foot back to a neutral 90-degree orientation. The product, designed for single-patient use, is available in petite, standard, and extra large. Learn more »
A Secure, Anonymous Résumé Bank
Job Alerts Sent to Your E-mail
Featured Jobs
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Sparrow Medical Group, Lansing, Michigan
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Carle Physicians Group, Urbana, Illinois
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Ohio Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, Athens, Ohio
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UNT Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas
Geriatrics Consult With Rosemary Laird, MD
Move It or Lose It

If we had a dime for every time we’ve told an older adult the importance of exercise and fitness to maintain function ... In our evidence-based world, there are more data than ever to support the benefits of exercise.

Benefits of Regular Physical Activity
Regular physical activity provides the following benefits:
  • it reduces the risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease;
  • it improves chronic illness such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and high cholesterol;
  • it improves the ability to function and stay independent in the face of caregiving challenges; and
  • it improves nighttime sleep patterns.
How Much Is Enough?
Older adults should engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity five times per week. Ten-minute bursts of increased intensity, which can include any effort that involves sustained activity, are helpful.

Continue reading »
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