Elderly Victorians are more likely to die following a fall than from a road accident, a report into major trauma has found.
In 2014/15 there were 459 deaths from falls from a height of less than a metre, compared with 301 in transport-related accidents. Most of the falls deaths were of people over 64 years.
The Victorian State Trauma System & Registry annual report 2014/15 also revealed a significant increase in serious injury and death in people falling from ladders – particularly older men.
The number of falls deaths have been higher than fatal transport accidents for the past five years.
A national working party is now looking into how to prevent ladder falls and a review of the Australian & New Zealand Ladder Standard will look at any design issues or improvements.
Research has indicated that many older people do not identify themselves as being at risk of falls, and so don’t respond to calls for reducing risks. The Victorian Government promotes falls risk reductions being incorporated into many activities for older people, including:
- Exercise and physical activities including strength and balance improvement
- Works by local councils and people in their own homes and gardens to reduce hazards that could lead to falls
- Vision and mobility checks and improvements
- Falls prevention procedures in residential aged care, hospitals, public places and among people in their own homes
“The number of older Victorians who die or experience serious injury from falls is a concern, we will continue to do what we can to reduce the risks.” said Minister for Health Jill Hennessy.
“I would encourage Victorians to think first before climbing a ladder or standing on a chair – is there a friend or neighbour who can help you out.”
