Dawn Pinnisi
January 27, 2025
A fall has serious consequences for the victim’s health and well-being. Probably the most frequent question is one of life expectancy after a fall in the elderly. The injuries caused by falls may be very serious and require long recuperation and diminished quality of life. At Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C., we take all slip-and-fall accidents seriously and are here to fight for your rights when such an accident has occurred as a result of someone’s negligence.
Main Causes of the Elderly to Fall
The elderly are victims of falls due to the interaction of physical, environmental, and medical factors. Falls can occur anywhere: in the home, in public spaces, or even in care facilities. Understanding the underlying causes is the first step toward prevention.
- Balance Problems and Weakness: Muscle mass and strength decrease with age, naturally reducing stability. Conditions that affect balance, such as vertigo or disorders of the inner ear, further contribute to this problem.
- Medications: Most elderly people take medications for chronic ailments, and some of these medications, especially sedatives, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications, have side effects that include dizziness or drowsiness, adding to fall risk.
- Chronic Conditions: Health issues such as arthritis, diabetes, and neurological disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, are common among older persons and often impair mobility and make them more susceptible to falls.
- Environmental Hazards: Some of the most common items in a home can be very hazardous. These include uneven floors, loose rugs, cluttered walkways, and poor lighting. While some risks stem from natural aging, others are preventable with proper attention to surroundings and health management. For instance, property owners who permit hazardous conditions in public areas may be held responsible if an accident takes place on their premises.
How Does a Fall Impact Life Expectancy in the Elderly?
Life expectancy after a fall for older adults is determined by the severity of the injury and one’s prior health status. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, most falls are characteristic of fragile and chronically disabled older adults, which may cause fractured hips, pelvises, and forearms that occur from osteoporosis. These injuries contribute to reduced physical function and may result in long-term debilitating health consequences that could subsequently shorten life expectancy.
Consequences of Fall on Elderly People
A fall has consequences not limited to the individual’s physical health but also affects their emotional status and economic stability.
- Physical Injuries: These are fractures, especially of the hip, wrist, and spine, after falls. Traumatic brain injuries can also occur, especially where a blow to the head is imparted. These often involve surgery, extensive rehabilitation, and sometimes long-term care.
- Loss of Autonomy: Most elderly people who fall are unable to recover their earlier levels of mobility and confidence. Such a loss of autonomy often results in dependence on carers or a move to residential or assisted living facilities.
- Emotional Effects: Fear of having recurrent falls markedly reduces activities among the aged population; this may make them retreat from social functions and contribute to the possibility of developing depression.
- Financial Costs: The financial cost of falls is high in terms of emergency medical treatments, surgeries, rehabilitative services, and long-term care. When these falls happen under unsafe conditions on either public or private properties, recovering these costs may be done through legal actions.
Can Falls Be Prevented?
Yes, many falls can be prevented if certain preventive measures are taken. However, the prevention of all falls cannot be done by just anyone. Following are the steps that can effectively minimize falling incidents, especially among the aged:
- Safety Around the House: The addition of a few grab bars in bathrooms, utilizing non-slip mats, and keeping clutter off the walkways could greatly improve safety.
- Routine Medical Care: Regular check-ups help manage conditions like vision impairments, osteoporosis, and heart disease, all of which contribute to fall risks. Doctors can also review medications to minimize side effects that might lead to falls.
- Exercise Programs: Activities that focus on improving balance, flexibility, and strength—such as yoga, Tai Chi, or guided physical therapy—are proven to reduce fall risks.
- Legal Accountability: When falls occur due to unsafe premises, consulting with an attorney can help secure compensation and encourage property owners to improve safety measures.
Prevention not only safeguards the physical health of elderly individuals but also preserves their confidence and independence, which are essential for maintaining a good quality of life.
Contact an Experienced Slip-and-Fall Attorney Today
If you or someone you love has suffered a fall due to the negligence of another, it is important that you take action immediately to protect your rights. The experienced personal injury lawyers at Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C. know how to walk families through these complex situations. Please contact us at (201) 588-1500 for an appointment and to find out how we can help.
Dawn M. Pinnisi
Dawn M. Pinnisi is a distinguished attorney with a track record of excellence in advocating for victims of injury and negligence. Dawn is a Founding Partner of the Firm, a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and has been awarded by the National Trial Lawyers.
University: J.D. Brooklyn Law School
Bar Number: 33771999
Locations: New Jersey and New York.
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