Understanding the Causes of Nursing Home Falls and Injuries
Falls in nursing homes are disturbingly common, with approximately 50 to 75 percent of residents experiencing such an incident each year. Falls result in about 1,800 deaths annually among nursing home residents. Despite their frequency and severity, only around 57 percent of nursing home falls are reported. This indicates that these falls are even more prevalent than widely known.
Several factors contribute to the high incidence of falls in nursing homes. Muscle weakness and gait problems are leading causes, accounting for about 24 percent of falls. Additionally, 72 percent of falls resulting in injury involve walkers or wheelchairs, suggesting that improper use or maintenance of assistive devices plays a significant role. Environmental hazards such as wet floors, poor lighting and cluttered walkways further increase the risk. Medication side effects, particularly from sedatives or medications affecting blood pressure, can impair balance and coordination.
Determining responsibility for nursing home falls involves assessing whether the facility implemented reasonable precautions to prevent them. Federal and state laws require nursing homes to take appropriate measures to safeguard residents from accidents. When a preventable fall occurs due to the facility’s failure to uphold this duty, it may be considered negligence, making the nursing home liable for the resulting damages.
If a loved one is injured in a Long Island nursing home fall, immediate steps should be taken to see to their well-being. First, seek prompt medical attention to address any injuries. Then, document the circumstances of the fall, including the environment, staffing levels, and any prior indications of risk. Report the incident to the nursing home’s administration and then follow up to ensure appropriate corrective actions are taken. Lastly, consult with an experienced New York nursing home injury attorney who can provide guidance on the viability of a negligence claim and assist in pursuing compensation.
Jakubowski, Robertson, Maffei, Goldsmith & Tartaglia, LLP, based in St. James, New York, is a full-service law firm offering comprehensive legal support to accident victims. Their team of skilled attorneys assists clients with personal injury matters, including claims arising from nursing home falls. Call us at 631-360-0400 or contact us online to arrange a free initial consultation.