Last update:
15-Nov-2008

Older people as well as young children below the age of four are the two most vulnerable age groups for falls, particularly inside and around the house. The consequences of an accidental fall injury range from a single fracture to death, but even a single fracture, may cause lifetime disability and require lengthy and costly rehabilitation. This paper aims: (a) to describe the magnitude and the socio-economic burden of falls related injuries in the countries of European Union (EU), (b) to outline underlying risk factors and (c) to present evidence-based preventive practices that reduce the likelihood of falls occurrence. Some of these measures are therefore included in the European Code Against Injuries (ECAI) aiming to raise public awareness regarding injury prevention. The major focus of the respective ECAI section is dedicated to older people and children's safety given that these two groups are the most vulnerable for falls injuries.

Key words: Accidental falls, Children, European Code Against Injuries, Frail older people, Injury Prevention.