Falls main cause of injury-related deaths for Elderly

SANTA FE – Unintentional falls were the leading cause of injury-related deaths among older New Mexicans from 2019-2023, according to New Mexico Department of Health data. 

A recent New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) report on Unintentional Fall-Related Injuries Among Older Adults in New Mexico includes some key points on fall-related deaths and hospitalizations among New Mexicans aged 65 and older. Among the findings include:

• The age-adjusted death rate from falls among older adults (65+) in New Mexico dropped 41% from 2019 to 2023.  
• The age-adjusted hospitalization rate increased by 6%, showing serious injuries are still on the rise.  

 

The findings align with recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data showing New Mexico’s national rank for highest fall-related death rate among adults 65+ improved from 25th in 2022 to 35th in 2023.

Likely explanations include improvements in emergency response, trauma care, and fall-prevention programs — meaning more older adults are surviving falls but still requiring hospitalization. At the same time, the aging population is growing, which can contribute to more hospitalization overall. 

“Falls are not an inevitable part of aging, and most fall-related injuries can be prevented,” said Dr. Miranda Durham, NMDOH chief medical officer. “Older New Mexicans can lower their risk by focusing on building strength and improving balance with an exercise routine that suits their lifestyle.” 

“Every fall that is prevented means more time for older New Mexicans to live and thrive with their families and in their communities,” said Emily Kaltenbach, Aging and Long-Term Services Department cabinet secretary. “Local senior centers are a great place to build strength and stay connected, and we encourage every older adult to take advantage of the wellness programs available in their community.”

Most falls can be avoided, and Falls Prevention Awareness Week, Sept. 22-26, is a good time to start planning. NMDOH’s Fall Prevention Program offers evidence-based community solutions—like balance classes, home safety, and caregiver/healthcare worker resources—to help adults 65+ stay safe and independent.  

Recommendations include: 

• Find a good exercise program to build balance, strength and flexibility. Contact 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773) to locate a class near you.    
• Ask your health care provider for an assessment of your risk of falling and be sure to share your history of recent falls.   
• Regularly review your medications with your health care provider and pharmacist to ensure side effects don’t increase your risk of falling.   
• Get your vision and hearing checked annually and update your hearing aids and eyeglasses accordingly.   
• Maintain routine care for your feet and wear proper, supportive footwear.  
• Keep your home safe by removing trip hazards, increasing lighting, securing handrails and installing grab bars in key areas.  
• If you are a caregiver or family member, do a walkthrough of your loved ones’ homes to help address safety upgrades such as better lighting or grab bars.  

 

Older New Mexicans can check their risk for falling at the National Council for Aging’s Falls Free CheckUp. New Mexicans can also contact New Mexico Aging for assistance connecting to resources at 800-432-2080.