Elderly Brain Injuries on the Rise

Mar 20,2017

Brain injuries from falls are on the rise among the elderly population. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2013, one in 45 Americans ages 75 and over suffered a brain injury resulting in an emergency department visit, hospitalization or death. These numbers represent a 76% increase since 2007.

Researchers are not sure what is causing the sharp spike in elderly brain injuries. One possible factor is the growing number of senior citizens living at home by themselves. Additionally, admitting to falling might result in their loss of independence, so many older adults downplay their falls, or fail to report them at all.

Elderly Population Suffers Highest Rate of Brain Injuries

The elderly are at higher risk of suffering a brain injury from falling than any other age group. In fact, falls are the No. 1 cause of injuries and death among older people, according to the CDC. Older adults are more likely to suffer from issues like impaired vision and dizziness, which can lead to falls. They also lack the strength and agility of younger people to regain their footing once they lose balance. All of these factors can contribute to falling.

What can you do to help the older adults in your life avoid injuries from falling? Encourage them to exercise regularly—particularly activities that improve balance, such as Tai Chi. You can also help make their living space safer by removing tripping hazards like loose rugs. Installing grab bars and handrails around the home can also reduce the falling hazard for your elderly loved ones.

“No one wants to forfeit their independence. However, the safety of the older adults in your life might depend on you having a tough conversation about their living situation,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.