On March 4, 1999 Justice Harry A. Blackmun died of complications afterhip replacementsurgery. He underwent the procedure after a fall at his home. Justice Blackmun was 90. The cause of Justice Blackmun's death underscores the seriousness of the consequences of a fall in the elderly and the need to understand why such falls occur and precautions to prevent falls whenever possible.
With age may come wisdom and, all too frequently, a fall. Falls are common causes of serious injuries. One out of every three people over 65 falls every year in the U.S. And that fall may be the last. In 1995, a fall was fatal to nearly 8,000 Americans over 65.
What comes after a fall?
Falls are the most common cause of injuries among senior citizens and the top reason for a hospital admission fortrauma. Advanced age substantially increases the likelihood of hospitalization after a fall. Falls account for 87% of allfracturesamong people aged 65 years or older.
For seniors, fractures are the most serious consequence of falls (short of death). The most common bones tofracturein falls are:
- The hip, femur (thigh bone), pelvis, and vertebrae (spine);
- The humerus (upper arm bone), forearm, and hand; and
- The leg and ankle bones.
Are some fractures more serious than others?
髋部骨折引起最大的健康问题nd the greatest number of deaths. Nearly a quarter million hip fractures occur each year among people older than 50 years in the U.S.
How long are seniors hospitalized for ahip fracture?
Most patients with hip fractures are hospitalized for about 2 weeks. However, about half of all seniors hospitalized for hip fracture cannot return home or live independently after the fall.
How much do hip fractures cost?
In 1986, it was estimated that hip fractures accounted for more than $3 billion in direct medical costs. Now they are surely no less costly.
What medical factors increase the chance of a fall?
Medical factors that contribute to falls among seniors include:
- Visual impairment, such as frommyopiaorcataracts;
- Disorders of the nervous system, such assciatica;
- Joint and muscle problems, such as occur witharthritis;
- Difficulties in gait and balance, such as inParkinsons's disease; and
- Medications which induce sleepiness.
Where do seniors fall?
For people aged 65 years or older, 60% of fatal falls occur in the home, 30% in public places, and 10% in health care institutions.
What environmental factors increase the chance of a fall?
Environmental hazards that play major contributing roles in falls include:
- Slippery surfaces and uneven flooring;
- Poor lighting;
- Tripping obstacles such as loose rugs, steps, and pets;
- Unstable furniture; and
- Objects left lying on the floor or steps.
How can falls be prevented?
These precautions can help minimize the risk of falls:
- Physical activity to improve strength, mobility, and flexibility in seniors;
- Limitingsleep-inducing medications whenever possible;
- Appropriate treatment of underlying medical conditions;
- Environmental modifications such as installing grab bars, removing tripping obstacles (especially animals and rugs), and maintaining sufficient lighting;
- And some common sense doesn't hurt!
This article is based in part on information from the Division of Unintentional InjuryPreventionof the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control.
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