Why Slip-And-Fall Accidents Are More Common Among Seniors

Posted On: August 1, 2017

Facebook
LinkedIn
X

As an older American, you face unique hazards each day that may place you at a higher risk of a slip-and-fall accident than the rest of the general population. Falls are so common among older people, in fact, that AgingCare.com reports they are the primary cause of injuries, deaths and hospital trips among seniors.

So what types of age-related factors may enhance your risk of taking a serious fall? Your risk of falling and injuring yourself tends to increase if you are:

Recovering from surgery

Your body tends to break down as you age, and many older people must undergo surgical procedures to reduce pain and improve mobility. Some procedures, such as hip replacement, can make you more likely to fall in their aftermath. This may prove particularly true if you are taking pain medications that may affect balance, vision and so on.

Taking certain prescription medications

In addition to taking pain medications after surgery, your use of other prescription drugs may also make you more prone to falling. Anti-depressants, sedatives and anti-psychotics are among the types of medications that may enhance your risk of a fall as an older person.

Largely immobile

If you are among the many seniors who sees their levels of physical activity diminish over time, this too may compound your risk of falling and suffering an injury. When you reduce your level of physical activity, your bone mass and muscle strength tend to suffer, which in turn makes you more susceptible to falls and injuries.

In a poorly maintained environment

Immobility, the use of medications and other factors are likely to increase your chance of falling even more when you are in an environment prone to poor housekeeping procedures. For example, insufficient lighting makes you more likely to take a tumble. Loose carpeting, a lack of adequate hand railings on staircases and other obstructions in pathways also enhance your risk. While there is only so much you can do to counteract the natural developments associated with aging, many environmental obstructions are avoidable with a little preventative care. 

It All Starts Here

Schedule a Free Consultation

We only work with clients and cases we truly believe in, we take your case because we genuinely believe in both you and your case’s importance.

Related Articles

October 13, 2020

There have been many advances in safety technology for trucks in recent years. There is plenty of evidence to suggest that increasing technology can help to make a safer vehicle. Forbes suggests that by advancing…

January 9, 2017

1. Assess the scene. The first thing you should do is figure out the extent of your property damage or injuries. If either is present, call the police. Even if it was a minor incident…

June 3, 2020

A truck accident can irreparably change the life of the victim and his or her loved ones. Because of the difference in size and weight between a semitrailer and smaller passenger vehicle, even a low-speed…