Mental tests reveal fall risk for older Australians
The results of the first long-term study comparing mental ability and fall rates among elderly Australians have been published by researchers from The Australian National University and Flinders University in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.
By 2011 it is projected that Australia will spend more than $600 million annually on health services related to falls in adults aged 65 and older. The study proposes that identification of those at risk of falling could be improved by the use of simple cognitive tests allowing for earlier intervention.
![Dandenong Mayor [left] stands next to aged care resident and aged care staff member](https://agedcareguide-assets.imgix.net/news/articles/wp/belv__2204.jpg?fm=pjpg&w=370)
![Dandenong Mayor [left] stands next to aged care resident and aged care staff member](https://agedcareguide-assets.imgix.net/news/articles/wp/belv__2204.jpg?fm=pjpg&w=520&format=auto&q=65)
