Senior Citizens Prone to Indoor Slip and Fall Injuries
July 2, 2018
When there are slippery surfaces, it is logical to think that people may experience injuries and accidents. Although there are many injuries associated with slip and falls, a new study concerning hip injuries calls certain correlations into question.
A study conducted by the American Society of Anesthesiologists followed 544 patients at the Hospital of Central Connecticut who were treated for hip fractures between 2013 and 2016. The study found that people with hip fractures were more likely to encounter the injury in indoor establishments rather than outside.
While it may not be true for all types of injuries, it may be surprising to learn that about 76 percent of hip injuries occur indoors. About 55 percent of total fractures happened during the warmest months of the year, between May and October. When looking at indoor hip fractures alone, about 56 percent of them happened during the warmer months. Additionally, about 60 percent of outdoor fractures also happened during the warmer months.
Hip fractures disproportionately affect senior citizens, and this may be influencing the data even though it is counterintuitive to what we know about slip and fall injuries. Many seniors may be retired and may not have the necessity to leave their homes, and therefore may do so less often.
Common Causes for Slip and Fall Injuries
The study also found that the most common cause for a hip fracture was tripping over something. When the hip injury occurred indoors, the tripping hazard was most often a throw rug. If the hip fracture occurred outside, then it usually happened when falling from a vehicle or falling on outdoor stairs.
Although this is a small-scale study, it can serve as useful information for caregivers and seniors when evaluating a care facility for tripping hazards and installing systems to prevent bed falls where it is appropriate. Additionally, when possible, particularly frail seniors should receive assistance getting in and out of vehicles and avoid outdoor stairs when it is possible.
While the study may tell us information about seniors’ slip and fall injuries and how often they occur, it is important for caregivers to understand that seniors may not necessarily avoid slip and falls by staying indoors. The most important takeaway from the study is to be aware of potential slip and falls accidents in both indoor and outdoor settings for senior citizens.
Philadelphia Slip and Fall Lawyers at Nerenberg Law Associates Assist All Victims of Slip and Fall Accidents
If someone you love has experienced a slip and fall accident, the Philadelphia slip and fall lawyers at Nerenberg Law Associates can evaluate your case and fight to hold the negligent part accountable for your injuries. Located in Philadelphia, we serve victims from the surrounding areas. Please contact us online or call us today at 215-569-9100 for a free consultation.
