According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States, falls are the leading cause of injuries and deaths among elderly Americans. Around 33% of the elderly fall at least once a year, and these falls result in over 2 million visits to the emergency room. Even when the fall did not cause any serious injury, the experience can still be so frightening to seniors that they may avoid certain activities all because they’re afraid they’ll fall again.
The Reality of Slips and Falls Among the Elderly
Falls are a serious health issue among seniors. While falls in the general population usually come about due to dangerous work or leisure activities, seniors are at greater risk of falling in their day-to-day activities. Medications, vision impairments, and general weakness can combine with environmental factors to put seniors in danger of seriously injuring themselves in any fall.
Many falls certainly do not cause injuries, but one out of five falls do cause fractures or head injuries. These injuries can make it hard for a person to get around, do everyday activities, or live on their own. Here are more facts about falls among the elderly.
Globally, falls are already considered a major public health problem. The easiest way to prevent slips and falls is by keeping the house neat and organized. Make sure that walkways are kept clear to reduce the risk of tripping. Remove tripping hazards and clutter, like piles of newspapers and magazines, boxes, electrical cords, or wiring. Toys from pets and children can become tripping hazards as well. Move coffee tables, magazine racks, and plant stands from high-traffic areas. Make home safe.
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