Facts About Slip And Fall Injuries Every Senior Citizen Should Know
When you are young, a slip or trip may not be that big of a deal. You will likely bounce back on your feet and be on your way. However, as an aging adult, slips and falls can become a very scary thing. With aging muscles, bones, and joints, one little fall could easily be a big problem that causes you severe injuries. This is why if you are injured in a public place because of the negligence of someone else, you should talk to a personal injury attorney. Here are a few interesting facts and statistics every senior citizen should know about the dangers of slips and falls.
1. Falling Is More Common with Age - According to the Centers for Disease Control, one out of every three people over the age of 65 will fall a year; however, not even half will seek medical attention or even tell their doctor. Unfortunately, not seeking medical attention after a fall could lead to bigger problems later on if an injury is not recognized right away. Therefore, if you have even a minor fall, it is best to go ahead and tell your doctor so they can check you over.
2. The Number of Fatal Injuries Due to Falls Is High - Also according to the CDC, at least 700,000 elderly individuals fall every year and have to be hospitalized for their injuries. In most cases, the injuries are relative hip fractures or a head injury, which can both have horrible consequences if they are not treated properly and in a timely manner. Even without head trauma, a hip surgery for a fracture could cost as much as $68,000 and cause you a great deal of pain.
3. Small Falls Can Easily Be Fatal - One alarming study shows that in 2013 alone, more than 29,000 people died after a fall caused severe trauma to their head or otherwise. Even though one slip and bump on the head in a store or facility may not seem that major, head trauma can be fatal, especially as an aging adult.
The last thing you want as a senior citizen is to see your quality of life compromised after a fall because of someone or a place of business that has been negligent. If you have suffered injuries after a slip or fall, talk to a personal injury attorney at a firm like Leen and Emery for advice as soon as possible.
