WE probably all know of someone in later life who died following a fall.

According to the Office for National Statistics between 2008 and 2016 the number of deaths after a fall among over-85s rose by 107 per cent – 177 per cent for men and 72 per cent for women.

And that isn't because more people are generally living longer. The total number of people aged over 85 only went up by 19 per cent.

Fall deaths are in several categories. Sometimes, for example, a person might die directly because of a bang on the head, develop pneumonia after lying undetected on a floor or break a hip and not recover. The majority of falls have occurred at home.

Non-fatal hip fractures among people in later life are on the rise too, perhaps not unexpectedly with a growing frailty linked to Britain's ageing population.

Even without the need for hospital treatment falls shake confidence, especially if an older person lives alone and decides it's too risky to venture out.

The resulting drop in exercise is likely to lead to even great frailty and therefore increased risk of further falls.

Studies of the problem have also been published in Australia and the United States where it has been noted that a significant proportion of falls happen within days or weeks of people being discharged from hospital.

New York physical therapist Leigh-Ann Plack said: "One of the biggest risks of falling among the elderly is fear. Fear can cause avoidance of activities which can lead to weakness and instability. This then leads to more fear due to a feeling of being unsteady."

What can be done to reduce the risks?

Better support facilities including social care, particularly following hospital discharges, falls clinics and improved care home staffing levels are all matters likely to mean public spending and therefore public pressure on politicians.

Home modifications like installing hand rails and reducing clutter, for example furniture or slippery surfaces which could pose fall risks, are things which can be carried out comparatively cheaply – or even for free with help from family and friends.

A Philadelphia hospital survey of injured over-90's found a surprising high number had fallen from steps, a bed or a chair.

An Australian study found people were 37 per cent less likely to experience a second fall after home modification.

No-one lives forever - but we can take steps to reduce traumatic deaths.