Falls are the leading cause of injury for adults aged 65 years and older. Over 14 million older adults, or 1 in 4, report falling every year. These falls can lead to serious injuries, impacting the health and quality of life of elderly individuals. In many cases, injuries occur when elderly people are dropped or not properly secured during care.
Understanding the types of injuries that can result from these incidents and knowing how to respond effectively is crucial. This blog post explores the common injuries in such situations, their causes, and the necessary steps to take when an injury occurs, including filing a case if needed. Let’s get started.
Understanding the Risks
As noted above, falls are a prevalent concern among adults aged 65 years and older, often resulting in serious injuries that can significantly affect their health and quality of life. Age-related factors such as weakened bones, reduced muscle strength, and impaired balance make older adults more susceptible to falls.
Even a seemingly minor fall can lead to fractures, head injuries, or soft tissue damage, causing pain and mobility issues. When elderly individuals are dropped or not properly secured during caregiving activities, the risk of injury amplifies. Caregivers and families need to recognize these risks to implement preventive measures effectively.
Injuries in Dropped or Not Secured Cases
In elderly care settings, incidents where individuals are dropped or improperly secured can lead to various types of injuries. Understanding these injuries is crucial for improving care practices and ensuring the safety of older adults.
Fractures
Fractures, particularly of the hip, wrist, and arm, are common among elderly individuals who experience falls or accidents due to being dropped or inadequately secured.
These injuries can be debilitating, often requiring surgery and extensive rehabilitation to regain mobility and independence. Fractures in older adults can also lead to long-term complications, such as chronic pain, increased risk of future falls, and reduced quality of life.
Head Injuries
Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries, are serious consequences of falls and accidents in elderly care settings.
Such injuries can have lasting effects on cognitive function, memory, and overall quality of life. Immediate medical attention is crucial to assess and manage head injuries properly to prevent further complications.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries like bruises, sprains, and strains are also common when elderly individuals are dropped or improperly handled.
These injuries can cause significant pain and discomfort, affecting mobility and daily activities. Proper handling techniques and the use of assistive devices can reduce the risk of soft tissue injuries in elderly care settings.
Spinal Injuries
Spinal injuries, such as vertebral fractures or damage to the spinal cord, can occur when an elderly person is dropped or experiences a fall without adequate support.
These injuries may result in paralysis or loss of sensation below the injury site, requiring extensive medical intervention and rehabilitation. Prevention through proper lifting techniques and the use of supportive equipment is essential to mitigate the risk of spinal injuries.
Causes of Dropped or Not Secured Cases
Instances where elderly individuals are dropped or improperly secured in caregiving settings can stem from various factors. Often, inadequate caregiver training plays a critical role. This can lead to errors in handling techniques or misuse of equipment.
Environmental hazards, such as slippery floors or cluttered spaces, further contribute to the risk of accidents. Additionally, communication breakdowns among caregivers and between staff members can lead to lapses in coordination. This increases the likelihood of mishandling incidents.
Addressing these causes requires comprehensive training programs, regular safety assessments of the environment, and effective communication protocols.
By addressing these factors proactively, caregivers can minimize the occurrence of dropped or not secured cases, promoting a safer and more supportive environment for elderly individuals under their care.
What to Do After a Fall?
In the unfortunate event that an elderly individual is dropped or improperly secured, it is crucial to respond swiftly and effectively to ensure their safety and well-being. Here, we’ll outline the necessary steps to take following such incidents, including immediate actions, seeking medical attention, consulting with our team at The David Bell Law Firm, and filing a case if needed.
Immediate Actions
Upon discovering that an elderly person has been dropped or improperly secured, it is essential to remain calm and assess the situation carefully. Ensure that the immediate environment is safe to prevent any further harm. You should avoid moving the injured person unless absolutely necessary to prevent exacerbating their injuries.
Seek Medical Attention
If the injury appears serious, such as head trauma, fractures, or significant bleeding, immediately call emergency services. Follow any instructions given by emergency responders and ensure the injured person receives prompt medical attention. Documenting the incident and obtaining medical records will be crucial for any future legal actions.
Speak to Our Team
Consulting with a lawyer specializing in elder law or personal injury is advisable to understand the legal options available. Our lawyers can provide guidance on whether there is a basis for a case and what steps need to be taken next. They can also assist in gathering not secured properly evidence, such as witness statements and medical records, to support the case.
File a Case
If negligence or improper care contributed to the incident, filing a formal case may be necessary to seek compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
The process involves submitting a complaint to the appropriate legal authorities and following through with legal proceedings as advised by the lawyer. It is important to act promptly within the statute of limitations for personal injury cases to ensure legal rights are protected.
Get Legal Representation Today
Ensuring the safety and well-being of elderly individuals is crucial, especially in preventing incidents where they are dropped or not properly secured. If your loved one has been injured due to negligence, it’s important to take immediate action to address the situation and seek justice.
The David Bell Law Firm, with more than 30 years of experience in Augusta, Georgia, specializes in elder law and personal injury cases. We can help you navigate the legal process and pursue compensation.
Schedule a free consultation with The David Bell Law Firm today to discuss your case and protect your loved one’s rights.
