Certain risk factors make Arizona residents more prone to falling. While not every fall leads to a serious injury, many do, and while it may take quite some time for someone who falls to recover physically, they may, too, face emotional hardships in the aftermath of a fall.
Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about a fifth of all falls results in a serious injury. Many such injuries make it increasingly difficult for fall victims to work, move about or otherwise move forward with their day-to-day lives.
Common fall injuries
About a fifth of all falls results in a serious injury such as a traumatic brain injury or broken bone, with falls now serving as the top cause of traumatic brain injury in the United States. Yet, many other injuries also result from falls. For example, more than 95% of hip fractures suffered by Americans are the result of falls, and they often occur after someone falls sideways.
Common fall risk factors
Many falls impact Americans who are 65 or older. This may be due to the fact that older adults tend to have more risk factors for falls, which might include lower body weakness and issues with mobility. Older adults are also more likely to take certain prescription medications that have the capacity to impact their balance and steadiness on their feet. Environmental factors also contribute to many falls, with wet floors, cluttered pathways and loose wires or carpets all contributing to fall risks.
Even when someone falls and does not suffer a serious injury, the fall may make them fearful of falling again, causing them to isolate themselves or limit their level of physical activity moving forward.
