SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) State health officials say the rate of fallelated deaths among New Mexico adults has dropped nearly 10 percent over a two-year period. A report released Tuesday on fallelated deaths and injuries shows the rate among adults age 65 and older decreased to 79.6 per 100,000 people. That's nearly the same rate as in 2002. Older adults accounted for 85 percent of fallelated deaths in New Mexico in 2013. Unintentional falls among adults resulted in 234 deaths and more than 12,000 emergency room visits last year.
Health Secretary Retta Ward says fallelated injuries can seriously impact quality of life and can reduce a person's independence.
The Health Department is encouraging doctors to conduct comprehensive fall risk assessments at least once a year. Assessments should include vision exams and medication reviews.
