Aging brings many worries, you know, the things we all fret about, like thinning hair, wrinkles and creaky joints. You might add “can’t stay on our feet” to the list.

Falls are a leading cause of both hospitalization and institutionalization in the U.S. A University of Michigan study found that the number of falls requiring medical attention increase by about 1.5% a year.

The researchers reviewed Medicare claims from adults 65 and older from 2016 to 2019.

The average yearly increase equals roughly an additional 106,000 people injured badly enough to require medical care. About 3 million hospital emergency room visits stem from older adult falls, accounting for some $50 billion in medical costs each year, most of them paid by the government.

The researchers said it’s puzzling that despite fall-prevention efforts, the numbers continue to climb. And they’re not sure if those communication and education efforts aren’t working well or whether they are and injuries would be worse without them.

The researchers said it simply could be that older adults are increasingly physically active and thus fall more. Prescription medicine could also be a factor.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers tips to reduce your risk of falls. They include things like exercising to become stronger, having your eyes and feet checked, wearing well-fitting shoes and making your home safer.

To do that, remove rugs or use double-sided tape to keep them from slipping, use nonslip mats in your shower and tub, install good lighting and grab bars in the bathroom.

When it comes to falls, it’s worth taking time to avoid a broken hip.