Seniors and Falls: The Statistics
When it comes to seniors and falls, it’s essential to understand the risks and the consequences of falling at home or while out and about. Approximately 1 in 4 older adults fall annually. However, that number is estimated to be much higher as older adults are reluctant to report falls to their family members or physicians.
Out of those falls, about one in five results in a severe injury, like a broken hip or traumatic brain injury. Nearly 3 million older adults are treated in emergency rooms for fall injuries each year, with 800,000 being hospitalized for follow-up monitoring, surgery, or pain management after a fall.
Common Causes of Falls For Seniors
You might be wondering why all of these seniors are falling in the first place. The answer is complex and can vary from person to person, home to home, and situation to situation. However, common causes of falls in seniors can include:
- Decreased vision and inability to see flooring transitions or steps throughout the home
- Decreased stability and balance
- Decreased flexibility and endurance
- Neurological conditions that cause shaking or unsteadiness
- Increased risk of shuffling their feet or having an unsteady gait
- Improper use of mobility aids like walkers or canes
- Medication side effects, such as dizziness
- Environmental factors, like slick bathroom floors or unsecured rugs throughout the home
How to Prevent Falls at Home
There is some good news: fall prevention strategies can be put into place in the home, reducing both the risk of falling and the risk of serious injury if a fall does occur. Fall prevention begins in the home and can often be completed with a few DIY adjustments that include:
- Installing grab bars near the toilet and in the shower
- Putting down slip-resistant flooring in the shower
- Installing a shower chair in the shower
- Removing extra clutter or large pieces of furniture throughout the home so that the person can navigate without a challenge
- Securing rugs to the floor
- Increasing lighting in darker spots of the home, especially stairwells or hallways
Other ways you can prevent falls at home can include:
- Make sure eyeglasses are clean and are using the correct prescription
- Making sure the person knows how to correctly and safely use any prescribed mobility devices
- Going to physical or occupational therapy appointments to gain strength and confidence
- Considering senior living as a potential solution
Fall Prevention Strategies in Senior Living Residences
In many cases, a move to senior living can help decrease fall risk thanks to senior-friendly design and assistance from onsite caregivers. Senior living residences already have residences that are friendly to mobility aids. Access to caregivers who can respond quickly in case of a fall or emergency goes a long way for peace of mind for seniors and their family members.
Unfortunately, a fall can lead to hospitalization, deconditioning, and even surgery. Taking preventative steps can reduce the risk of serious injury and help you avoid an unexpected hospital stay.
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