There has been a significant surge in the number of people dying from falls in the last few years, according to new figures.
The data shows a 70% increase in people dying as a result of a fall between 2010 and 2017.
More than 5,000 older people died because of a fall in 2017 compared to 4,856 in 2015, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
According to charity Age UK, which described ONS’ data as ‘shocking’, there has been a rise in fall-related deaths among the over 65 category, with more than 3,000 dying from falls in 2010.
Some groups have said that the issue of falls are overlooked.
Age UK’s charity director, Caroline Abrahams, said that falls are the leading cause of hospital admissions for older people.
“A serious fall can lead to a broken limb and a hospital admission and rob an older person of their independence but worse still falling is a leading factor in deaths from avoidable causes,” she said.
“The sad fact is that older people who live in poorer areas often have more complex health needs and poorer access to health, care and also community services that can help people remain active and help resilience.”
According to the ONS, the most deprived areas in England witnessed the most avoidable deaths caused by injuries.