Negligence Leading to a Nursing Home Fall
If your family member fell in a nursing home, you have the right to know why. We can help you get answers. Contact Ostroff Godshall Injury and Accident Lawyers for a free, confidential consultation so we can discuss what happened. There is no obligation when you contact us.
Shocking Fall Statistics
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has revealed staggering statistics regarding nursing home falls. As many as three quarters of all elderly nursing home residents fall each year. That’s twice the rate of falls for older adults living in the community. It’s difficult to tell exactly how many falls occur, because many go unreported. However, the CDC has noted that a typical 100-bed nursing home reports 100 to 200 falls each year. The statistics of fall-related fatalities are particularly alarming. About 1,800 elderly nursing home residents die each year from fall injuries. Those who survive a nursing home fall often suffer hip fractures, head injuries, and permanent disability.
More than one million elderly patients live in elder care facilities. By 2030, the number could rise to 3 million. As the population of elderly nursing home residents increases over time, the problem with falls may continue to grow. It’s yet another reason to ensure that a facility takes responsibility when negligence leads to a preventable fall.
Why Do Elderly Patients Fall?
An elderly person may fall in a nursing home for many reasons.
- Muscle weakness or difficulty walking cause 24 percent of nursing home falls.
- Hazards, such as incorrect bed height, wet floors, and improperly fitted wheelchairs, cause 16 to 27 percent of falls.
- Medications can affect the central nervous system and cause dizziness.
- Difficulty in moving due to poor foot care, improper use of walking aids, and other issues can lead to a fall.
A nursing home and its staff owe residents a duty to prevent injuries. Failure to provide adequate care can lead to a fall, injuries, and even death. That’s unacceptable. If you have questions about if this injury was caused by abuse or neglect, contact a nursing home abuse lawyer and start asking the hard questions. Fight back on behalf of your loved ones.
