[Epidemiology of falling]

It has been only some 10 years since the study of falls among old people was initiated in Japan. The incidence of falls depends on age, sex, health condition including underlying diseases, and extrinsic factors (e.g. living environment). The incidence of falls among community-dwelling elderly in Japan varies from approximately 10 to 25%, however, that among the elderly people in medical or care institutions is approximately 20 to 35%, being lower than that in US and European countries. The incidence of falls was higher in women than in men, and that it increased sharply with advancing age. Fall experience within one year preceding the survey was one of the major significant predicting factors. The available literature showed that exercise programs have beneficial effects. The exercises need to be regular and sustainable.