Soon after the line “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up” became a pop culture catchphrase, it lost much of its original context. What remains unchanged is that unintentional falls in the home account for many senior deaths, and in fact is the leading cause of injury-based fatalities for those 65 and older, according to this article. How often do falls happen? One out of three seniors in the US experience a fall each year, and every 18 seconds an elder is treated in an emergency room for a fall-related injury.
Perhaps most distressing is that the fall itself may not necessarily be the worst part of the event:
Often although many people may have a fall, even those who are not injured can develop a fear of falling. This fear may cause them to limit their engagement in activities. Unfortunately, this often results in loss of strength and a downward cycle of decreasing activity and vitality – which can in itself, lead to increased risk of falling.
The article suggests doing an inspection of your elder’s living space to reduce fall hazards, and evaluation of their medication to limit side effects. Having a care giver watch over your elder can also help mitigate the risks.
Read the article here.
Home Care Assistance Vancouver Blog 