Orlando Home CareFalls leading to serious injury or death become more frequent with age. In fact, about one in three people over the age of 65 will suffer a fall. Falls in the elderly are the leading accidental cause of death in people over age 65, according to the April 2000 issue of the medical journal, “American Family Physician”. 
The Impact Of Hip Fractures In Older Adults
Head injuries, spine fractures and broken hips are among the most dreaded and dangerous complications of falls. Broken hips are common in older adults and have serious consequences long after the injury.
It is well known throughout the medical community that hip fractures in the elderly can lead to serious declines in overall health, independence, happiness and quality of life. One fourth of patients suffering a hip fracture will die within a year. One-fourth will still be in a nursing home at the end of the first year after the fracture. Many more will never regain the level of independence and quality of life that had before the fall. Depression and frustration can lead to personality changes and social withdrawal.
Over 90 percent of hip fractures result from falls, rather than other types of accidents. Obviously, then, preventing falls can help avoid serious injury, disability or death.
Some seniors suffer falls that they never report if they do not lead to injury. Many fear that they will be forced or encouraged to give up their homes and be placed in a nursing home. Others don’t wish to admit that they are not as strong as they used to be. Some think there is no reason to report a fall if there is no resulting injury.
Regardless of the reason, it is important to make sure older people know that reporting falls can lead to discovery of the cause, and prevention of future falls. A non-injury fall that is reported may save an older person the problems that can follow a subsequent fall with a hip fracture. All falls in older people should be discussed with a doctor.
The nurses at Partners in Healthcare are available to talk with you about your in-home senior care needs including how to stay healthy at home with RN managed affordable care. We are a personal home care agency that provides elder home care serves in the Orlando area, call us at 407-788-9393.
