Die meisten Unfälle ereignen sich ausgerechnet dort, wo man sich besonders sicher und geborgen fühlt: in den eigenen vier Wänden. Oft sind es alltägliche Dinge wie Teppichkanten, herumliegende Kabel oder unzureichende Beleuchtung, die zu einem Sturz führen. Gerade weil das Zuhause vertraut wirkt, wird das Unfallrisiko häufig unterschätzt.
Im Alter steigt die Sturzgefahr zusätzlich an, insbesondere wenn die Seh- und Muskelkraft nachlassen und man leichter aus dem Gleichgewicht gerät. Dann können selbst kleine Hindernisse in der Wohnung zur gefährlichen Stolperfalle werden. Stürze und deren Folgen führen nicht selten zur Pflegebedürftigkeit. Umso wichtiger ist es, durch präventive Maßnahmen das Sturzrisiko nachhaltig zu senken.
POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES OF FALLS
Bruises, abrasions and minor bruises are among the more harmless injuries after a fall. They are painful and can impair mobility in the short term, but usually heal without permanent damage. However, an already fragile state of health can be further worsened by the consequences of a fall accident. In older people, the likelihood of fractures increases due to the age-related decrease in bone density. Fractures are particularly common in the wrist, upper arm and hip joint. A femoral neck fracture is by far the most common bone fracture treated in hospital, with serious consequences. Due to slower healing processes in old age, a fracture can result in long-term restrictions and complications. This can unexpectedly prolong a stay in hospital and delay the recovery of mobility. It is not uncommon for a fall accident to lead to a short-term or permanent need for care. In such cases, assistance with household chores, shopping, dressing and personal hygiene may be necessary. In order to receive benefits from long-term care insurance, insured persons must apply for a care degree.
In addition to physical impairments, falls can also cause psychological stress that is less obvious. Older fall patients in particular often lose their self-confidence, which can lead to a vicious circle. After a fall, there is often a fear of falling again, which makes movements more uncertain and some even avoid walking. They find it difficult to regain their previous mobility, limit their activities and withdraw. The lack of movement in turn leads to muscle loss, a loss of balance and even more insecurity, which increases the risk of further falls. Every new fall increases the fear of falling. People often even consider moving to an apartment at ground level for fear of falling down the stairs.