Statistics from the Australian Department of Health show that falls are the leading cause of deaths from injury among people aged 65 years and above. One in three people in this age group suffer from fall injuries at least once a year. Although the incidents are more common among older women than in men, the risk for fall in both is greater as they age.

1. Falls: A Serious Risk
for Older Adults
Jigsaw Balustrades
Unit 4/7 Geelong Court
Bibra Lake WA 6163
[Phone number 08 9418 1866

2. Statistics from the Australian Department of Health show that falls are the leading
cause of deaths from injury among people aged 65 years and above. One in three
people in this age group suffer from fall injuries at least once a year. Although the
incidents are more common among older women than in men, the risk for fall in both
is greater as they age.
It is important to have safety measures in residential settings in place, particularly in
bathrooms, as these are slip and fall prone areas. The use of glass showers screens,
non-slip bath mats, and grab rails can help reduce the risk of accident.
Downside of Falls
Falls may cause various health and mobility issues, including head injuries and
abrasions, bruises and sprains, and hip and shoulder dislocations. Statistics reveal that
5-10% of falls contribute to fractures, with broken hip as the most serious problem.
These injuries contribute to approximately 40% of all residential care admissions.
Fall incidents are not just limited to physical problems, however. It extends to
affecting the psychological condition of older adults. Most people suffer poor self-
confidence and loss of independence. They also develop anxiety and fear when
performing daily routines, keeping them from enjoying life.

3. Prevention of Falls
Falls are not inevitable, however. Seniors can avoid injuries from such incidents by identifying
and managing risk factors. Although physical conditions such as vision problems, poor balance,
and mobility issues contribute to falls, the kind of environment seniors are in makes the most
impact on increased risks. It is thus important to determine slip and fall prone areas and
establish safety measures against hazards.
The most common site of fall incidents in residential settings is the bathrooms. The constantly
wet surface puts older adults at greater risk.
An effective way to keep water off the bathroom floor is to install glass shower screens. These
fixtures are able to control spills in the area. Manufacturers of glass balustrades today
customise shower screen designs to suit the safety needs of homeowners and older adults.

4. It is also important to use non-slip mats in bathtubs and shower floors. Rugs should be secure
and without tears or damages. Installing grab railings in the toilet and shower area can also
help prevent falls.
Falls contribute to most of the injuries experienced by older adults. Safety precautions within
residential settings can prevent these incidents and promote the well-being of seniors.
RESOURCES:
http://www.jigsawbalustrades.com.au/design/
http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Falls_prevention_for_older
_people
http://www.myagedcare.gov.au/healthy-and-active-living/falls-prevention