Why Head Injuries Are Especially Dangerous For Older Adults

Changes in the aging body, as well as external factors that are a common part of the aging process, make what may seem to be mild head injuries dangerous.

The Leading Cause of Head Injuries is Falls

The most common cause of brain injury-related medical care (including emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and deaths) is from falls. Older people are more likely than the general population to fall, just due to decreased balance and mobility issues that are a common part of the aging process.

The elderly are more prone than younger people to experience a brain injury when they fall for a few reasons. The brain shrinks as part of the aging process. The protective cushion between the brain and skull thins as well. This means even a relatively minor hit to the head can cause devastating damage.

Another reason head injuries can be more devastating to the elderly is due to the medicines they may be prescribed. Blood-thinning medications are commonly used to prevent heart attacks and strokes, but these same medicines make it easier for a bleed to develop after a head injury. Anyone who takes these types of medications must be monitored closely by a medical professional after a head injury.

Other health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and cognitive issues, can interfere with the healing process after a head injury. A head injury can also cause long-term health consequences, such as accelerating cognitive decline, triggering mood disorders, and increasing dementia risk.

Quick action following a head injury provides the best chance of a full recovery. A life-changing fall does not always create immediate, severe symptoms. Any time an older person experiences a fall, they should receive a medical assessment. Even a short delay can mean the difference between a full recovery, permanent disability, and even death.

Falls in Nursing Homes

Falls are one of the most common issues in long-term care facilities. It is important that the facility staff have procedures in place and receive training to understand what to do after a fall.

While eliminating falls may not be possible, the care facility should provide adequate supervision along with fall-prevention devices. Rooms, halls, and common areas should be free of tripping hazards. When a resident falls, they should have a medical evaluation immediately.

What to do if a Loved One Experiences a Fall While Staying in a Nursing Home

Ideally, your loved one will receive the prompt, attentive care required after a head injury. If you are concerned about the response from facility staff, a nursing home abuse lawyer can help. These attorneys are trained to investigate the circumstances of the injury. They will review not only medical records, but can also access information such as staffing levels and incident reports.

A nursing home abuse attorney will advocate for your loved one and help your family navigate through any legal proceedings, insurance company negotiations, or other processes necessary to provide your loved one with the best chance at a full recovery.

Prevent Falls to Protect the Brain

Whether at home or in a care facility, fall prevention, such as installing handrails and adequate lighting, and removing trip hazards, is the most important action you can take. Talk to your loved one’s primary care provider to discuss health and balance checks, which allow you to recognize if your loved one needs more help or supervision than they are currently getting. Most importantly, any fall or head impact, even those without obvious symptoms, should be seen by a medical professional. Often, by the time symptoms develop, it is too late for a full recovery.

The costs associated with that care can be steep, though. That’s why it can be essential to work closely with a trusted personal injury law firm like Barrera Law Group LLC.

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