Slip-And-Fall Accidents: A Serious Issue as We Age

By JR Reyna –

For seniors, many major issues start with something as simple as a fall. In fact, for older Americans, falls are the leading cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries, and one in four Americans over 65 has a fall each year. Not only is this a threat to your health, but it’s a threat to your wallet as well. In 2014, the total cost of fall injuries was $31 billion. However, as the elderly population increases, this number will likely grow (it’s estimated to hit $67.7 billion by 2020).

That’s a lot to take in, but like many health issues, it’s easier to be proactive than to treat a major health issue after it occurs. Here’s some advice on how to limit your chances at slipping and falling:

Slipping at Home

Most people feel that their home is the perfect safe haven, but not necessarily. 70 percent of serious injuries for seniors happen within or near your home. Part of this is due to the fact that most seniors spend the bulk of their time at home. In addition, there are factors that are completely unaffected by your environment, such as:

• Reduced coordination
• Inactivity
• Medication side effects
• Chronic conditions

Speaking of environment,  part of the issue behind seniors falling is that as people get older, they don’t think about various parts of their house that could present fall risks. For younger people with better coordination, there may not be much of a risk at all, but at an older age, you don’t want to take any risks. Here are some good tips to keep seniors safe:

• Get rid of tripping hazards like clutter, small furniture, pet gear, electrical cords, and throw rugs. 
• Arrange or remove furniture to provide more walking space.
• Secure carpets to the floor. A snag could provide a tripping hazard.
• Wipe up spills immediately. It’s tempting to “get to it later” but that’s one more risk you don’t need.
• Make sure outdoor areas have proper lighting and walkways are smooth and free from ice. If you aren’t able to do this alone, make arrangements for a loved one or professional to help you in this area.
• Use non-slip adhesive strips on stairs. You can find these in any home supply store.
• Use non-skid mats or appliques in the bath and shower. Using grab bars in the tub and shower are a good idea as well.
• Place nightlights in kitchen, bath and hallways. In some cases, a lack of lighting turns something harmless into a fall hazard because you aren’t aware of them.
• Make sure that commonly used items are more accessible and within reach at all times.

In many cases, senior-proofing a house may require a loved one’s help, but it’s a time investment well worth making.

Slipping In Public

Prepping your house is all well and good, but what happens when you need to go out? For starters, you want to have some sort of walking assistance available if needed, like a cane or walker. When you are walking around, be sure to stay focused rather than letting your mind wander. Use any railings or other forms of assistance that are available. If you feel tired, don’t push yourself unnecessarily. Stairways and bathrooms are two of the most common areas where seniors fall both in public and at home, so be sure to look around for potential slipping hazards.

In some cases, you may be picking up a smaller job to bring in some extra money or fill in time. Many do this at local retailers, but just because you’re older or part-time doesn’t mean your employer shouldn’t honor their commitments to you. Slipping and falling are among some of the most common work injuries, and your age won’t serve as an impediment to your compensation if your employer is at fault.

For some people, the fear of falls is almost as restrictive as the fallout from one, resulting in limited activities and social engagements. However, don’t let that be your life if you can help it. By taking an active role in fall-proofing your home, being aware of your surroundings, and having plans for when falls do happen, you can mitigate this common senior issue and still have an active, full life.

JR Reyna, Esq. is a native Texan. He is licensed to practice law in the state courts of Texas, the United States District Courts for the Southern, Northern, and Western Districts of Texas, as well as the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals.