Home » Law Enforcement Articles » CDC Identifies Risks of Falls as Public Health Peril for Elderly
CDC Identifies Risks of Falls as Public Health Peril for Elderly
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) characterizes slip-and-falls among older adults as "a public health problem that is largely preventable."
May 21, 2011 /Law Enforcement PR News/ -- When hazardous conditions such as a slippery floor or dangerous staircase cause a slip-and-fall injury, the harm can range from merely a bad bruise and embarrassment to a serious orthopedic injury, a head injury or a spinal injury. Common sense reminds us that the older you are, the more likely an unexpected fall will cause serious injuries and lasting problems.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has compiled data on the frequency of falls among older adults that has led it to characterize slip-and-falls among the elderly as "a public health problem that is largely preventable." Here are just a few of the startling statistics:
- One of three adults 65 or older falls every year
- Falls are the leading cause of death among older Americans -- in 2007, more than 18,000 fatalities resulted from injuries caused by unintentional falls -- and the death rate is rising sharply
- In 2009, injuries from falls led to 2.2 million emergency room visits by older men and women, and a quarter of these injuries required a hospital stay
- Nearly half of all fatal falls were attributed to a traumatic brain injury
Even if the trauma of a severe fall doesn't lead directly to death, it can take a long-term toll on an elderly person's health. Hip fractures and concussions are just two examples of the type of injuries that can occur during falls and may make it harder for an older adult to live independently.
The CDC recommends a series of strategies to lessen the chance of falling by elderly Americans. Regular exercise, eye exams and proper medication can improve balance and reduce dizziness. But proper lighting, appropriate railings and securely fixed rugs and carpets -- factors that may be beyond an elderly person's control -- are every bit as important.
When Hazards Cause a Fall, Poor Maintenance, Inadequate Supervision or Other Negligence May Be Involved
The CDC points out that falls in nursing homes are a particular problem, with twice the rate of falls than for the general elderly population. Common causes of injury to nursing home residents include improper supervision, wet floors, improper bed heights, poor lighting, and poorly adjusted or defective wheelchairs.
If an elderly person or other family member has sustained a fall that caused a serious or catastrophic injury, you should contact a California personal injury lawyer specializing in premises liability who can evaluate if another party is potentially responsible in whole or part for the fall and resulting injuries. Hazardous conditions that can cause falls may not be readily apparent, and an experienced personal injury attorney knows how to assess whether another party -- such as the premises owner, builder, maintenance contractor or architect -- may have acted negligently and be liable for compensation for the harms resulting from the injuries sustained during the fall.
Article provided by Biren Katzman Trial Lawyers
Visit us at www.biren.com
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