Is a Nursing Home Fall Inevitable?
The statistics are astounding. About 1,800 older adults living in nursing homes die each year from fall-related injuries. And those who don’t die, frequently face injuries resulting in permanent disability, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Another fact is that fear of falling again can cause depression, feelings of helplessness, and social isolation. What makes these statistics even more powerful is that many times falls go unreported.
Falling can be caused by a variety of factors. People in nursing homes tend to be frailer than older adults living in the community. Factors such as having certain chronic health conditions, difficulty walking, and memory problems have been linked to falling. Additionally, certain medications can increase the risk of falls.
Studies show that 16% to 27% of falls in nursing homes are due to environmental hazards, such as wet floors, poor lighting, incorrect bed height, and improperly fitted or maintained wheelchairs. And there are several notable steps that can easily be taken to reduce the potential for falls. For example, installing grab bars, raised toilet seats, and handrails in hallways can dramatically decrease the potential for falls.
Contact us by phone or our info request feature if you have a question regarding a fall in a nursing home.