The first step: Stay calm. Study suggests stress makes falls and fractures more likely for seniors.

RODALE NEWS, EMMAUS, PA.— Falls are the leading cause of injury deaths in people over 65. And a new study suggests that it’s not just a physical problem; emotional stress seems to greatly amplify the odds of potentially fatal or debilitating falls. The research was published recently in the journal BMC Geriatrics.

THE DETAILS: Swedish researchers interviewed 167 patients aged 65 and older who were admitted to the hospital for at least one night after falling and breaking a hip or pelvis. Researchers called the hour before the fall the “hazard period,” and found that experiencing emotional stress during that time increased the risk of a serious fall. Experiencing anger increased the risk more than 12-fold, while stress intensified the odds of a fall 20-fold. Sadness was linked to a nearly 6-fold increased risk of falling.

WHAT IT MEANS: Although the study was small and researchers admit more studies need to be done to clarify the connection between stress and falling, it seems important for older people to not only take steps to avoid falls, but to learn how to deal with stress to protect themselves, too. Likewise, anyone living with or caring for an older parent or relative will want to consider all options for lowering the risk of a dangerous fall.

Here are general tips to avoid falls: