Moving into a long-term care facility isn’t something that most people do without considerable thought. These residents need help with their activities of daily living, and it’s expected that the staff members will take care of that assistance.
For some residents, one of the primary concerns is mobility challenges. They may need to use walkers, wheelchairs or hand railings to get around. In some cases, they need assistance from the staff members to do certain activities, such as using the bathroom. When they don’t receive the assistance they need, they may fall.
Common causes of falls
Some nursing home residents are at an increased risk of falling, which is a primary cause of a broken hip. This is often due to reduced mobility or balance issues, but it can also be caused by medications that lead to dizziness or drowsiness. It’s also possible that certain medications for blood pressure or sedatives can play a role in fall risk.
Residents who have cognitive impairments, such as dementia, may also have an increased fall risk. This may not be due to physical changes, but it could be because it’s harder for them to recognize and avoid hazards.
Long-term care facilities should have a design that minimizes the risk of falls. Nonslip floors, proper lighting and clear hallways are some of the issues that can be easily addressed. They should also ensure that there is adequate staffing and supervision for the residents.
When a long-term care resident falls and breaks a hip, this can mark the beginning of a serious health decline and a long-term loss of independence. Those residents will often need considerable medical care, which can be costly. They may opt to pursue a personal injury claim against the nursing home to help cover those expenses.
