The Impact of Slip and Fall Injuries on the Elderly

Slip and fall injuries can impact the elderly in ways that are physical, mental, social, emotional, and economic. Seniors who are injured may suffer physical pain, reduced independence, psychological harm, and burdensome medical expenses. Jordan Law Center’s Slip and Fall Lawyer explains the potential effects of elderly falls.

Understanding the Increased Risk of Falls Among the Elderly

86% of falls involve adults ages 65 and older. However, only 17.3% of the U.S. population is seniors. That means seniors are at a greatly increased risk of falling.

Falls are the number one cause of injury and injury death to U.S. seniors. As a person gets older, the chances of falling increase.

There are several reasons why the elderly are at an elevated risk of falling, including:

• Medications that may cause impairment
• Poor vision
• Decreased sensation in the feet and the ability to perceive the environment
• Declining balance
• Inadequate lighting
• Health conditions
• Less strength and decreased ability to react quickly
• Cognitive decline
• Lack of necessary mobility supports

How Slip and Fall Injuries Can Lead to Complications in Older Adults

There are several ways that a slip and fall can lead to complications in older adults:

Reduced mobility

The CDC reports that 10% of falls among seniors result in immediate activity restriction while the injured person waits for medical attention. In addition, the person may have to further restrict their physical activity in the future. The changes may be out of necessity because of injuries or a person may fear falling again and minimize their movement in hopes of preventing a similar incident.

If a person lives in a care facility, or even if they live independently, healthcare providers may take steps to limit a person’s movement or independence after a fall. These restrictions may or may not be appropriate under the circumstances. In addition, they may not receive the appropriate mobility devices and support after the fall, including canes, walkers, railings, and good footwear. Poor response may lead to an increased risk of another fall.

Reduced physical activity

A person who is injured in a fall may be impacted by reduced physical activity in the future. If they become less active, they may see a decline in their health, and ability to complete certain tasks.

Even the brain can feel the effects, as reduced physical activity can contribute to depression and raise the risk of developing dementia. Reduced physical activity can have a social impact, as the person may be less able to go to events and interact with others.

Reduced independence

When a person is hurt in a fall, they may become more dependent on others. They may rely on caregivers to meet their needs, including transportation, meal preparation, and personal care. A person may not be able to move from a seated position without assistance. This reduced independence can significantly change a person’s quality of life.

Mental health impact

A fall can have a mental health impact including anxiety and depression. A person may fear another fall. Daily activities may become stressful. They may be embarrassed about what happened and nervous about it happening again.

One study found an association between falls and depression among the elderly. Depression may both be a risk factor for falling and an effect of falling.

Anxiety related to falling may lead to avoidance behaviors. A person may limit activities that they think may cause another fall.

Economic impact

Three million seniors visit the emergency room each year because of a fall. Falls can be costly to treat. The National Council on Aging reports average inpatient costs for fall treatment at $18,658. They say that senior falls cost over $80 billion to treat each year.

Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance can cover some of the cost. However, uncovered expenses may create economic hardship for those hurt and for their families.

Types of Elderly Falls

Elderly falls may be categorized by how they occur. They may occur for the following reasons:

• Medical – A person may have a medical condition that makes them more likely to fall. They may have reduced strength or impairments that make mobility more challenging. A fall may result from dizziness, unsteadiness, or loss of consciousness.
• Improper footwear, and mobility support – The elderly often need sturdy or specialized footwear to maneuver safely. They may need walkers or railings for support. A fall may be related to not having the footwear or mobility support that is appropriate for the person’s needs.
• Surface hazards, falling objects – Even if a senior is physically fit, and they have proper footwear, there may be external hazards that cause a fall. Carpet and household objects may create a trip hazard. Steps may be slippery or uneven. Objects may fall from above.
• Crowds – A senior may fall because of the jostling of crowds. A large crowd may be hazardous, but falls can also result from being in a small space or from someone not having situational awareness.

Fall-related Injuries in the Elderly

Falls in the elderly may result in a variety of injuries, including:

• Broken bones
• Cuts and bruises
• Concussion, traumatic brain injury
• Loss of consciousness
• Torn tendons and ligaments
• Mental health injury
• Soreness
• Spinal cord injury
• Nerve strain, causing sharp pain

Recovering from a Fall

Recovering from a fall may involve:

• Emergency or urgent medical care
• Surgery, diagnostic tests
• Immobilization
• Rest
• Crutches, scooters, and wheelchairs for mobility
• Physical or Occupational Therapies
• Changes in footwear
• Evaluation of medicine
• Follow-up medical care
• Assessment of the environment, including lighting and fall hazards
• Increased personal support
• Mental health treatment
• Changes in personal care

The appropriate steps for recovering from a fall depend on the injuries, how the fall occurred, and the personal characteristics of the victim.

How A Greenville Slip and Fall Lawyer Can Help

Many slip and fall accidents are preventable. The injured person may have a right to compensation. A Greenville slip-and-fall lawyer at Jordan Law Center can assess your case and represent you. We invite you to contact us today to discuss your situation.