CPSC Reports Dramatic Increase in Sports-Related Injuries to Older Americans

NEWS from CPSC

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

Office of Information and Public Affairs

Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 28, 1998
Release # 98-101

Brochure Phone Number: (800) 824-BONES
CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: Ken Giles, (301) 504-7052

CPSC Reports Dramatic Increase in Sports-Related Injuries to Older Americans

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) today released a study (pdf format) showing a 54 percent increase in the number of sports-related injuries suffered by older Americans between 1990 and 1996 -- from 34,400 to 53,000.

CPSC and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) are teaming up to reverse this trend. The two organizations are distributing a brochure, "Keep Active and Safe at Any Age," which gives important tips to older Americans on remaining safe while enjoying the many benefits of exercise.

The CPSC report, Sports-Related Injuries to Persons 65 Years of Age and Older, shows that most of these increases in injuries to older persons are in connection with more active sports, such as bicycling, weight training and skiing.

"The good news is that many of these injuries can be prevented," said CPSC Chairman Ann Brown. "This large rise in sports-related injuries shows that although it is important to remain active as we get older, it is also important to play smart."

CPSC and AAOS recommend that the best way to stay safe while exercising is to use the proper safety gear. Bicycling injuries to older Americans alone increased 75 percent from 1990 to 1996. If you bike, always wear a bike helmet. Most bicycling injuries resulted from falls. Head injuries accounted for 21 percent of the injuries. Virtually none of the fall victims was wearing a bike helmet.

According to the study, injuries associated with exercise activity, such as aerobics and weight training, increased 173 percent between 1990 and 1996. The most common types of injuries were falls and strains. The brochure recommends when working out with exercise equipment, read instructions carefully and, if needed, ask someone qualified to help.

Less active sports, such as golf and bowling, showed little increase in the number of injuries during the study period. The study also shows, for the first time there are injuries among the 65 and older population in very active and physically challenging sports, such as snowboarding and in-line skating.

While the 65 and older population has grown, the increase in the size of the population doesn't account for the 54 percent overall increase in sports-related injuries. This age group's population has only increased by about 8 percent from 1990 to 1996.

The lower hospitalization rate for sports-related injuries suggests that the population taking part in these sports activities is healthier overall than those not participating in sports.

"Even moderate exercise 30 minutes a day is beneficial for most people of all ages," said Nicholas A. DiNubile, MD, orthopaedic surgeon. "Studies have shown that exercise can result in a longer, healthier life, build stronger bones and reduce joint and muscle pain. Exercise can improve mobility, balance and function, and reduce the risk of falls and serious injuries like hip fractures."

Dr. DiNubile says to warm-up before exercising, and vary the type of activity -- walking, swimming, bicycling, etc. -- to work different muscles and keep exercise interesting.

The report concludes that the increase in injuries to the older population is due in part to a more active lifestyle and greater participation in sport activities by older Americans. The report shows that sports-related injuries to persons 75 and older increased by 29 percent. Americans are remaining more physically active into their 70s, 80s and 90s.

"CPSC encourages everyone over the age of 60, including me, to get out and exercise," Brown said. "Just be sure to do it safely."

To receive a hard copy of the brochure, "Keep Active and Safe at Any Age," call toll-free at (800) 824-BONES or send a self-addressed, stamped business-size envelope to, "Keep Active" brochure, American Academy Of Orthopaedic Surgeons, P.O. Box 1998, Des Plaines, IL 60017. Copies of the brochure and the CPSC report can also be accessed from this CPSC web site using the hot links above.