What Are the Most Common Injuries Associated with Nursing Home Falls?

 Posted on June 20, 2023 in Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Falls can be devastating for older adults living in nursing homes, and unfortunately, they happen all too often. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the leading cause of serious injury and death for older Americans. The risk of falling for seniors living in nursing homes is exceptionally high. When a nursing home fall occurs, it can result in serious injuries with long-term consequences. If your loved one experienced a nursing home fall, contact an experienced personal injury attorney to ensure your loved one has the legal representation they need during this difficult time.

The Most Common Injuries Associated with Nursing Home Falls 

Here are some of the most common injuries associated with falls in nursing homes:

• Broken bones – Older adults have a higher risk of suffering from bone fractures when compared to younger people. Bones tend to become more brittle as we age, making them more susceptible to breaks. Some of the most common fractures that occur in nursing home residents after a fall include fractures of the hips, pelvis, arms, legs, and spine. These injuries can cause significant pain and may require surgery to repair. 

• Head injuries – Falls can cause traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in older adults. TBIs may range in severity from mild concussions to more serious injuries such as bleeding in the brain. These injuries can lead to long-term damage and can negatively affect things like memory, coordination, and speech.

• Bruising – While bruising may seem like a minor injury, it is important to know that older adults are prone to developing bruises that can be much more significant than those experienced by younger individuals. Large bruises, particularly those located around the joints, may be a sign of an underlying injury.

• Fear and anxiety – Falls can profoundly impact an older adult’s mental health. When a senior experiences a fall, they may worry about falling again, leading inevitably to depression, anxiety, and PTSD. 

• Death – Tragically, nursing home falls can sometimes be fatal. Many nursing home residents are frail and have pre-existing conditions that make them susceptible to fatal injuries when they fall. 

Contact a Hyde Park Personal Injury Attorney

If someone you love has been injured in a fall-related injury in a nursing home, it is important to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer. Contact the skilled Chicago personal injury lawyers with Kadzai Law Group, LLC for high-quality legal assistance. Call 312-229-0050 for a free consultation. 

Source:

https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2016/p0922-older-adult-falls.html