Preventable causes of ER visits for older Americans

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other medical institutions highlight key preventable causes for emergency room visits among older Americans.

Falls represent the primary driver of emergency visits for this demographic. Approximately 25% of adults over age 65 experience a fall annually, resulting in roughly 3 million emergency department visits. Medical experts note that failing to report a fall to a doctor can be dangerous, as a single incident more than doubles the likelihood of future falls. Warning signs include unsteady walking, near-misses, and sudden dizziness when standing.

Medication-related issues, including adverse drug interactions and errors, contribute to nearly 100,000 emergency hospitalizations for older adults each year. Common causes include missed doses, duplicate prescriptions, or dangerous combinations of medicines. Symptoms of such events may include confusion, dizziness, nausea, or unexplained bruising.