Older Americans should play it safe, report says.

A recent study released by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) shows a 54 percent increase in the number of sports-related injuries suffered by older Americans. The number rose from 34,000 in 1990 to 53,000 in 1996. In contrast, sports injuries suffered by people ages 25 to 64 increased only 18 percent.

The report, Sports-Related Injuries to Persons 65 Years of Age or Older, shows that most of the injuries to older people are due to their participation in active sports, including bicycling, weight training, and skiing. Sports injuries to people 75 and older increased 29 percent, showing that Americans are remaining active well into their 70s, 80s, and 90s.

"The good news," CPSC Chair Ann Brown said, "is that many of these injuries can be prevented. This large rise in sports-related injuries shows that although it is important to remain active as we get older, it is also important to play smart."

The CPSC and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) are teaming up to reverse the increase in injuries. The organizations are distributing a brochure, Keep Active and Safe at Any Age, which gives tips to older Americans on remaining safe while enjoying the benefits of exercise.

According to the brochure, most injuries are due to falls and strains. The best way to stay safe while exercising, the CPSC and AAOS say, is to use the proper safety gear. Bicycling injuries to older Americans alone increased 75 percent from 1990 to 1996, with head injuries accounting for 21 percent of the injuries. Few of the injured bicyclists were wearing helmets.

The study shows that for the first time there were injuries among the 65 and older age group in very active and physically challenging sports, such as snowboarding and in-line skating. Less active sports, such as golf, fishing, and bowling, showed little increase in the number of injuries.

While the 65 and older population has grown, the increase in the size of the population is not linked to the 54 percent increase in sports-related injuries. The age group's population has increased by only 8 percent from 1990 to 1990.

To obtain a copy of the brochure, Keep Active and Safe at Any Age, call (800) 824-BONES or send a self-addressed, stamped business-size envelope to "Keep Active" Brochure, Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, P.O. Box 1998, Des Plaines, IL 60017. Copies of the brochure and the CPSC study are available on the CPSC Web site at http://www.cpsc.gov.