RICHLAND TWP, Allegheny County — Many chuckle at the saying, "I've fallen and I can't get up!" But for senior citizens, falls are a serious problem.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one-third of people 65 and older fall each year. In 2003, 1.8 million people in that group were treated in emergency departments for fall-related injuries.

Among older adults, falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths, according to national vital statistics published in 2000.

Jaret Kerr knows how serious the problem is. As assistant director of rehabilitation at St. Barnabas Medical Center, he works with fall-related injuries all the time.

"It's what keeps me employed over there," he joked. But in reality, Kerr said he spends a lot of time trying to put himself out of a job.

Kerr gave tips Friday on fall prevention and walker device safety at the Village at St. Barnabas. About 25 residents of that community, which is part of St. Barnabas Health System, were there to listen to his advice.

"Based on the age of the population here at St. Barnabas, there is a high risk for falls," said Shelli Sommariva, a spokeswoman for St. Barnabas.

"The whole theory behind walker safety is that you are focused on your balance, not on anything else," Kerr said, introducing the theme of his talk.

Another important tip is to wear supportive shoes with a non-skid surface. Slippers can be dangerous, he said.

Consequences of falls are fractures, bruises, muscle tears and other injuries. Some are serious and some are less serious, but all can lead to a loss of the ability to live independently, stressed Kerr.

"The biggest consequence, I feel, is fear. Once someone falls, they become nervous and afraid. They don't think they can walk anymore. And it can take a lot to get them back on their feet," said Kerr.