Some Headline Facts:

• In cities: older people over the age of 65 have 30% chance of fall each year. This number will increase to 50% for the older people over the age of 80.
  
• Older people, who fall once, then have 2 to 3 times more chance of falling again within the next year.
  
• 20 - 30% suffer injuries that reduce mobility & independence and increase the risk of premature death.
  
• A follow up carried out in one year indicated that: 20% of frequent fallers were either in hospital, full time care or have died.
  
• 10% of falls result in a serious injury, 5% in a fracture than a hip, and 1.5% in a hip fracture in age higher than 65, rising to 3% on age over 80.
  

Even if there are no serious injuries resulting from a fall there may be emotional consequences such as loss of confidence and increasing social isolation.

Falls among the elderly is a potentially hidden problem - it is estimated that 75 to 80% of falls are never reported.

Falls are not an inevitable consequence of ageing and much can be done to reduce the risk of falling.

If you have had a fall, are concerned about falling or know someone who meets these descriptions then contact your GP.

OTHER INFORMATION ABOUT T’ai Chi and Falls

• See top menu “Taichi” click on: “Research on Taichi”. Search on many articles and organisations available to help in UK.
• Tai Chi, Foot Health and Falls
• A very good article posted By: Taichiclapham.com, October 3, 2018
• FACT SHEET: FALLS - THE BIGGEST THREAT TO SENIOR HEALTH AND SAFETY in USA
  
• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
  An American website, which you may find useful: What Are Ways to Prevent Falls and Related Fractures?
  Fast Facts: An Easy-to-Read Series of Publications for the Public

Please consult your doctor before embarking upon any of these exercises. Do NOT attempt these exercises on your own if you suffer from any degree of dizziness.