When people get older, there’s often no such thing as a “simple” fall. Tripping over an electrical cord in a store, gym or other business or slipping in some tracked-in snow or a spill can lead to serious injuries for seniors.
The following are two types of injuries that can be especially dangerous for those in their 60s and older. These injuries can also require extensive treatment and healing time.
Hip fractures
As people age, their bones lose density, which makes them easier to break. Hip fractures can be especially debilitating. Often, a broken hip requires surgery. That means hospitalization and rehabilitation time afterwards. This is generally followed by the need for a mobility aid, at least for a time.
There have been studies indicating that many older people go into a downward physical and mental health spiral after a broken hip. This is due in part to a loss of independence, fear of going outside and falling again and (often self-imposed) isolation. Having a comprehensive recovery plan that involves regular physical therapy and other structured activities can help.
Traumatic brain injuries
When people fall, they often strike their head on a hard floor, wall or other surface. This can cause a traumatic brain injury (TBI). The vast majority of TBIs in seniors (more than 80%) are caused by falls. While TBIs can be serious for anyone, they can be even more serious for seniors.
As with hip fractures, that’s because of changes in the body as people age. As they get older, people’s bodies (including their brains) experience some shrinkage. Brain shrinkage doesn’t necessarily affect intellect or cognition. However, it does result in more space between the brain and the skull that protects it. That means there’s more space for the brain to move if someone suffers a head injury.
Further, the bridging veins between the skull and the brain shrink. That makes it easier to damage them. These changes in the brain mean that a TBI is more likely to cause a subdural hematoma, which results in bleeding in the brain. This can be serious, if not fatal if it’s not stopped.
Older people may be more likely to fall when there’s a hazardous condition present than younger ones, and their injuries may be more serious and therefore more costly. However, if a property owner was negligent in maintaining their property, victims have just as much right to hold the property owner (or any responsible party) liable as anyone else. That’s one reason why it’s especially worthwhile to have experienced legal guidance to protect a victim’s right to fair compensation.