Slip and fall accidents are a leading cause of injury among the elderly, typically resulting in serious consequences such as fractures, head trauma, and permanent loss of mobility. Slip-and-falls can happen to anybody, yet these injuries increase significantly as we age. To help you learn more, the Las Vegas slip and fall lawyers at ER Injury Attorneys offer more information on senior slip and fall accidents.
Physiological Changes: The Aging Process of the Human Body
As we age, our bodies undergo a series of changes that make us vulnerable to slip and falls. Physiological changes are typically subtle but hugely impact balance, strength, and mobility.
1. Decreased Muscle Strength and Balance
Among the most visible changes with increasing age is loss of muscle strength and mass, also known as sarcopenia. This age-related loss is bound to create difficulties in holding oneself upright after a fall. In addition, changes in the inner ear, the balance hub of the body, can render one unstable and cause everyday activities to become difficult.
2. Vision Disturbance
Age-related vision problems, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, can add significantly to the risk of falls. Poor eyesight makes it harder to see obstacles, judge distances, and navigate uneven surfaces. Difficulty with depth perception can also lead to tripping on stairs or curbs, making a fall more likely.
3. Slower Reflexes
Reaction time slows with age, in a way that makes older adults slower to correct their movements when they start to fall. That delay can turn what would otherwise have been an insignificant slip into a potentially catastrophic injury.
4. Osteoporosis and Weakened Bones
Osteoporosis, a weakening of the bones, becomes more common with age, particularly among women. This disease puts bones at risk for fractures from low-force falls. Hip fractures can be particularly serious and may lead to long-term disability or loss of independence.
5. Chronic Health Conditions
Conditions like arthritis, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and neuropathy can affect mobility, balance, and coordination. Additionally, some of the drugs used to manage these conditions have side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, or low blood pressure, all of which increases the risk of falls.
Environmental Factors That Lead to Senior Slip and Fall Accidents
While changes in the body are very significant, environmental factors also have a share in the increased rate of slip and fall injuries among the elderly.
1. Home Hazards
Cluttered hallways, rolled-up mats, loose rugs, and poor lighting are common slip and fall home hazards. Slippery bathroom/kitchen floors and staircases without railings are also potential hazards.
2. Uneven Outdoor Surfaces
Sidewalks, curbs, and parking lots can be uneven or badly repaired and can be a tripping hazard to older adults. Weather conditions, like ice, rain, or wet leaves, can make it worse.
3. Insufficient Footwear
Shoes with poor grip, high heels, or badly fitting shoes can enhance the likelihood of slipping. Non-slip, well-fitting supportive shoes are recommended for older adults to prevent slipping.
Our Senior Slip and Fall Accidents Lawyers Can Help
The Las Vegas injury lawyers at ER Injury Attorneys are here with the information you need on senior slip and fall accidents. We’re also here for you if you’ve been hurt in a slip and fall accident through no fault of your own. Our dedicated team of Nevada injury attorneys is ready to help with the claim process and get you the compensation you need.
ER Injury Attorneys is available to assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can reach us right now by dialing 702-878-7878 or online through LiveChat. You can also fill out this contact form. ER Injury Attorneys represents accident victims throughout Southern Nevada, including Henderson, Summerlin, Pahrump, Boulder City, Laughlin, and beyond. Get in touch with us today to get the legal advocacy you need.