Findings

Congress finds the following: (1) According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 14,000,000 falls are reported each year nationwide among adults age 65 and over. (2) These falls result in 38,000 deaths. (3) Each year, approximately 3,000,000 older adults are treated in emergency departments for a fall injury. (4) Falls are the top cause of injury and injury-related deaths for adults over 65. (5) Falls among adults aged 65 and above result in over $80,000,000,000 per year in medical expenses. (6) More than 95 percent of hip fractures are caused by falling. (7) Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries. (8) According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), over 70 percent of falls occur in the home. (9) Falls can often be prevented, including by implementing simple home modifications. (10) Fire department personnel can play an important role in preventing and responding to falls.