According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1,800 older adults in nursing homes die each year from fall-related injuries, and those that survive severe falls typically sustain injuries that result in a permanent disability.
Falls are more likely to happen in nursing homes, as residents in nursing homes are usually more frail than older adults living in the community. As one of the most dangerous incidents that can happen in a nursing home, falls resulting in fractures need to be considered seriously, especially since many of these falls go unreported by nursing home staff.
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| Falls are more likely to happen in nursing homes, as residents in nursing homes are usually more frail than older adults living in the community. |
Some common causes of falls include environmental hazards such as wet floors, poor lighting and incorrect bed height. Residents may also be taking medications that affect the central nervous system, including sedatives and anti-anxiety medications causing drowsiness and disorientation that make them more susceptible to a fall.
Fear of falling is also a concern for some residents, which can lead to depression, feeling helpless and social isolation from not wanting to move frequently.
To prevent falls from happening, facilities should be making changes that allow residents to move around more easily and safely. Facilities can also distribute hip pads to residents that are more likely to fall and implement exercise programs to improve body strength. Staff should also check medications more likely to cause falls are prescribed correctly.
As many falls can be prevented, typically a fall is the result of negligence due to an unsafe environment. If your loved one has fallen in a nursing home, they may be justified in making a nursing home negligence claim. For more information, please contact a nursing home abuse attorney at Hupy and Abraham, S.C.