When it comes to Universal Design (UD), there is a strong recognition that UD features will be of immediate value to homeowners and recognized by future buyers, when the time…

Fall Prevention for those Aging in Place

Most seniors over 65 prefer to remain in their own homes and Age in Place. There are several benefits to Aging in Place, but understanding the risk of falling is important, as is is the importance of implementing Fall Prevention measures through use of Universal Design tools.

Facts on Falls for Seniors

• Falls are the leading cause of fatal injury and the most common cause of nonfatal trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults. ¹
• One-third of Americans over 65  fall each year.²
• More than 95% of hip fractures are caused by falling.³
• Falling once doubles seniors’ chances of falling again.¹
• 25% will be dead within one year of a fall⁴,
• 70% will be released to a nursing home and only 25% of these people will ever regain their former independence.⁵

While there may be a number of contributing factors to why seniors fall, that influence these data, it is startling nonetheless and raises the need for Fall Prevention. (more…)