There are many physical conditions and medical problems that could contribute to the increasing prevalence of falls in the elderly. Aging changes such as degenerating eye sight, muscle weakness and balance issues increase the dangers in a home. Proper lighting, handrails and removal of clutter can help reduce the likelihood of falling for seniors facing these issues.
Twenty to 30% of falls result in moderate to severe injuries, according to the CDC. However, other health problems can make a fall more likely to happen and the result even more devastating. Osteoporosis, arthritis and Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia not only can cause slip & fall accidents, but seniors with these conditions are likely to suffer serious injury from falls and maybe even death.