Division of Population Health

Indicator 14. Up-to-date on select preventive services
• The “up-to-date” indicator presents a composite picture of the vaccination and screening behaviors
of older adults. Indicators 10 through 13 measure the use of selected clinical preventive services
that are covered by Medicare 35 and recommended for adults aged 65 years or older. Although each
is essential independently, older adults need to access all of these services to protect their health.
• For men, three services are included: flu vaccine in past year, ever had pneumonia vaccine,
and colorectal cancer screening. For women, these same three services are included, plus a
mammogram within the past 2 years..
• This indicator is intended to provide a more meaningful and practical measure of the delivery of
clinical preventive services in communities. This comprehensive measure could also enhance the
ability of health departments and community groups to assess disparities in delivering preventive
services, better assess progress toward measurable objectives, and identify best practices. 36
Indicator 15. Falls resulting in injury
• Each year, one of three adults aged 65 years or older falls. Falls can cause moderate to severe
injuries, such as hip fractures and head traumas, and increase the risk of early death. 37
• Among older adults, falls are the leading cause of injury death. They are also the most common
cause of nonfatal injuries and hospital admissions due to trauma. 37
• Many people who fall, even if they are not injured, develop a fear of falling. This fear may cause
them to limit their activities—leading to reduced mobility and loss of physical fitness, which in turn
increases their actual risk of falling. 38
PAGE 24 The State of Aging and Health in America 2013