For most people, falling is not a big deal.  However, older adults face higher risk for injuries related to fall incidents.  One in three adults 65 and older stumble each year, and about one-third of those will suffer moderate to severe injuries, including head trauma and bone fractures.  Falls are the main factor in about 40 percent of nursing home admissions and the leading cause of death by accidental injury among older adults.  Winter months see more falls because of icy weather, but slip-ups are a year-round occurrence.

There are several reasons why older people are more at risk for falling.  Medical conditions such as arthritis cause pain and weakness.  Certain medications can make people feel dizzy and off-balance.  Strokes can cause a wobbly gait.  The natural loss of vision and hearing as people age can also contribute to the higher risk of fall incidents.

Here are some helpful tips for preventing a fall:

• Keep both hands free to help with balance.

• Wear shoes with rubber soles to improve traction.

• Take smaller steps to maintain the correct center of balance.

If a fall can’t be avoided:

• Toss anything you are carrying.

• Try to fall forward and roll into the fall.

• Relax muscles as much as possible.

At Berman & Riedel, LLP, our elder abuse attorneys have a complete understanding of the duty of care which nursing homes owe to you or a loved one in preventing fall incidents.  Berman & Riedel, LLP, has represented many clients throughout California in litigation against care facilities that failed to prevent the risk of falls or failed to carry out a fall-prevention plan for its residents.  If you believe a care facility did not properly protect against the risk of fall or plan or execute a fall-prevention plan for yourself or a loved one, please contact an elder abuse attorney at Berman & Riedel, LLP, to discuss your legal options.