Those who do not have an elderly person in their life often do not realize just how deadly falls can be for our older generation. Keep reading to find out why falls can be so dangerous. If you or a loved one has suffered a slip and fall due to someone else acting negligently, contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 right away for a free legal consultation.
The Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Are Alarming
According to the CDC, 25% of elderly people will experience a fall. Nearly three million seniors are treated in the emergency room each year for injuries related to falls. What is even scarier is the fact that about one out of every three of those seniors will die within one year of their fall.
Will children or younger adults may bounce back quickly from a fall, they can be very serious for the elderly. This is due partially because of how fragile an elderly person’s bones often are, which can result in broken bones. Complications from broken bones can lead to serious, deadly issues down the line – including things like pressure ulcers and deep vein thrombosis.
Other Factors That Can Contribute to the Likelihood of Falls
There are some factors other than a person’s age, which can lead to a higher chance that they will be involved in a fall. If you or another person has a hard time walking or balancing, uses antidepressant or sedative medications, is deficient in Vitamin D, or has had previous falls then there is a higher risk of falls.
There are also hazards within the home that can increase a person’s chance of falling. This could include uneven stairs, loose rugs, or a lack of handrails and other safety measures. Older adults who cannot see as well and have trouble balancing need safety measures taken to keep them safe.
Tips for Preventing Falls
There are steps that can be taken to lower the risk of falling. First, if you are experiencing issues with balance, then it is wise to talk to your doctor. If your vision is poor, make sure you see your eye doctor to find out if there are any treatments or new glasses that could help.
Walkthrough your home and look for potential safety issues. This could include bad lighting, no rails on stairs, or no grab bars in the tub and by the toilet. You can also work on balance by doing stretches and light exercise.
If you or a loved one falls on someone else’s property and you believe it was due to the owner of the property’s negligence or recklessness, please contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation. We can help you determine the best way forward.
