Slip-and-Fall Accidents and the Elderly: Special Considerations

Each year, elderly individuals across the country face the alarming reality of slip-and-fall accidents, which not only threaten their health but also their independence. Older people are often more prone to severe injuries from falls because of reduced mobility, balance issues, and weaker reflexes.

The CDC reports that falls among the elderly result in 3 million ER visits annually and 1 million hospitalizations. While safety measures at home are important, businesses and commercial property owners are also responsible for protecting this vulnerable group.

Learn more about the risk of falls in older people and what property owners can do to make their premises safer. If your loved one is hurt in a fall due to a property owner’s negligence, our Syracuse slip-and-fall lawyers can hold them accountable and seek compensation.

Slip-and-Fall Injuries Among the Elderly

The risk of falls increases among older adults, often due to reduced mobility and compromised balance. At least one in 10 falls in older adults result in injuries restricting activity for at least a day. Factors contributing to this heightened risk include:

• Sensory Impairments: Reduced eyesight and hearing, coupled with slower reflexes, increase fall risk, as older adults may not detect obstacles or react quickly enough to prevent a fall.

• Chronic Conditions: Diseases such as diabetes and thyroid disorders can impair nerve function and blood flow, leading to balance issues and an increased likelihood of falling.

• Physical Degeneration: The natural loss of muscle mass and strength (sarcopenia), gait and balance problems, and sudden blood pressure drops upon standing (postural hypotension) all contribute to instability and falls.

• Environmental Hazards: Clutter, uneven flooring, and poorly lit areas can create dangerous scenarios for older adults, particularly when combined with physical or sensory impairments.

The Consequences of Falls for the Elderly

As people age, their bodies become less resilient, making injuries from falls particularly severe. This can turn minor incidents into major health challenges. Common slip-and-fall injuries in the elderly include:

• Fractures: Bones become more brittle with age due to osteoporosis, making fractures, especially hip and wrist fractures, more common and severe. The CDC reported that in 2019, 83% of hip fracture deaths were caused by falls.

• Head Injuries: Elderly individuals are more susceptible to head injuries from falls, which can lead to serious complications such as concussions or traumatic brain injuries. The most common cause of TBIs is falls.

• Soft Tissue Injuries: These include sprains and bruises, which heal slower in older adults, increasing discomfort and recovery time.

• Joint Dislocations: Due to weaker muscles and connective tissues, dislocations can be more frequent, particularly in shoulders and elbows, leading to prolonged pain and restricted movement.

• Cuts and Lacerations: These injuries may lead to significant blood loss and are prone to infection, which can be harder to manage in older adults.

Steps to Prevent Slips and Falls

It’s crucial to implement proactive safety measures to prevent falls for the elderly. This can include at-home steps like:

• Modifying the home with handrails or non-slip mats
• Scheduling regular health checkups
• Purchasing proper footwear, like shoes with non-skid soles
• Encouraging physical exercise to improve balance and strength

In public spaces, property owners are legally responsible for maintaining safe environments to prevent accidents. Preventative measures they can take include the following:

• Adequate Lighting: Ensure areas are well-lit to improve visibility and help elderly individuals identify potential hazards.
• Non-Slip Flooring: Install floors with anti-slip properties to prevent falls, especially in areas prone to wetness.
• Regular Floor Maintenance: Keep floors free of spills, debris, and obstacles that could cause slips or trips.
• Sturdy Handrails and Ramps: Provide handrails and ramps instead of stairs to accommodate mobility aids and reduce tripping hazards.
• Clear Signage: Use signs to warn of potential hazards like wet floors or uneven surfaces.
• Safe Interior Layout: Arrange furniture to ensure there is ample space for navigation without tripping hazards.

Protect Your Elderly Loved Ones With Catalano Law

Slip-and-fall accidents are preventable situations that require attention and action. As our population ages, it becomes more important to advocate for environments that support the safety and dignity of older adults.

If you or an elderly loved one has been the victim of a slip-and-fall accident, work with an experienced attorney at Catalano Law to understand your rights. We can help your family receive a fair settlement and hold the property owner accountable, encouraging other businesses to protect these vulnerable citizens.

Contact us today for a free consultation.