A Skeleton-Saving Workout

To prevent falls, exercise is called for. What is needed is regular strength and balance training.

For older adults, falling down is a Big Deal. It's a biggest risk factor for a fracture, which--particularly when it's in the hip--can be exceedingly dangerous. The one-year mortality rate after a hip fracture is a high as 25 percent. So, argue researchers in a recent analysis published in the medical journal BMJ, preventing deadly breaks should include preventing falls, not just treating osteoporosis with drugs.

Falls happen for many reasons, and studies have suggested that cutting back on medications that may cause dizziness, supplementing with vitamin D and calcium (to build stronger bones), and making sure the home is safe all have their roles to play. read more...