Ways to prevent fractures

ROSEMONY, Ill., Oct. 23 (UPI) -- Experts want to prevent falls like the ones in which former U.S. first lady Nancy Reagan broke her pelvis and Sen. Barack Obama's grandmother fractured her hip.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the National Athletic Trainers' Association have issued a public service announcement on the importance of preventing falls.

More than 11 million U.S. senior citizens fall each year, including one third of adults age 65 and older, and 368,000 people were diagnosed with hip fractures in 2006.

To prevent falls, the AAOS suggests:

-- Get an annual physical and eye examination, particularly an evaluation of cardiac and blood pressure problems.

-- Maintain a diet with adequate dietary calcium and vitamin D.

-- Do not smoke and avoid excessive use of alcohol.

-- Participate in an exercise program for agility, strength, balance and coordination.

-- Eliminate all tripping hazards in the home and install grab bars, handrails and other safety devices.

-- Wear properly-fitting shoes with non-skid soles.

-- Never walk in stocking feet.