Is Your Loved One In Jeopardy Of Home Or Nursing Home Falls?
Falls are a significant concern for the elderly population in California, as they can lead to severe physical, emotional and financial consequences. Aging worsens the risks associated with falls, especially when your loved one is in a nursing home or long-term care facility.
If your loved one has fallen in a nursing home, and you suspect negligence may be the reason, call our nursing home fall injury lawyer at McMurray Henriks, LLP, to discuss your legal options. We do not charge for this consultation. In addition, because our law firm works on a contingency basis for these and other types of personal injury claims, you will not pay any legal fees unless we win your case.
Elderly People Are At Greater Risk Of Falls
As people age, changes occur in the body that can contribute to an increased likelihood of falling. Muscle strength and flexibility tend to decline with age, which can affect balance and coordination. This reduction in physical capability makes it more challenging to recover from a loss of balance or to navigate obstacles safely.
Aging often comes with a decline in sensory functions, such as vision. They may spend less time doing physical activity. Poor vision can make it difficult to see potential hazards. Lack of activity can result in decreased strength, balance and coordination. Social isolation can also lead to a lack of regular movement and exercise, further increasing vulnerability.
Chronic health conditions common among the elderly, such as arthritis, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, can also contribute to the risk of falls. These conditions may cause pain, joint stiffness or dizziness, which can impair mobility and stability. Medications used to treat these conditions often have side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, or hypotension or low blood pressure, which can further increase the risk of falling.
Environmental factors play a significant role in falls outside of assisted living facilities. Older adults may live in homes that are not adapted to their needs, with hazards such as loose rugs, poor lighting and cluttered walkways. Lack of safety features like handrails or grab bars in bathrooms can also contribute to the risk.
Falls Cause Major Problems For Elderly Persons
The physical impact of a fall can be devastating for older adults. Due to age-related factors such as decreased bone density, reduced muscle strength and balance issues, falls can result in serious injuries like fractures, head trauma and spinal injuries. In California, where elderly residents live independently or in senior communities, a fall can lead to prolonged immobility, loss of independence, and a decline in overall health. The recovery process can be lengthy and challenging, often requiring extensive medical care, rehabilitation and sometimes permanent changes to living arrangements.
The emotional toll of a fall should not be underestimated. The fear of falling again can lead to a reduction in physical activity, social isolation and a decrease in quality of life. In a state like California, where outdoor activities and an active lifestyle are highly valued, this fear can significantly affect an elderly person’s mental well-being. The loss of confidence and increased anxiety can further contribute to a decline in physical health, creating a vicious cycle that is difficult to break.
Financially, the cost of falls is substantial. Medical expenses related to fall-related injuries can be burdensome, especially for those on fixed incomes. Hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and long-term care can quickly deplete savings and strain public health resources. California’s health care system must manage these costs, which can be particularly challenging given the state’s diverse and aging population.
Falls And Broken Hips In Elderly People
Falls and broken hips are significant health concerns for elderly people, often leading to severe consequences and changing their quality of life. As people age, their bones tend to become more brittle due to osteoporosis, making them more susceptible to fractures. A fall can result in a broken hip, which is one of the most serious injuries for older adults.
Hip fractures typically require surgical intervention and a lengthy rehabilitation period. This can lead to prolonged immobility, increasing the risk of complications such as blood clots, pneumonia and muscle weakness. For elderly individuals, a hip fracture can result in a permanent loss of independence, often necessitating long-term care or assisted living. When this happens, families need to be vigilant to watch for signs of bedsores or nursing home abuse.
Contact A Nationally Recognized Law Firm For Assistance
Elder care issues can be complicated to handle without the help of an experienced nursing home fall injury lawyer. Call McMurray Henriks, LLP, in Los Angeles at 323-931-6200 or send us an email to confidentially discuss your concerns about elder abuse or nursing home negligence. Our consultations are free and we do not charge a legal fee to represent your case unless we win it for you.