Falls in Young Adults

Original Editor Andeela Hafeez

Top Contributors - Andeela Hafeez, Lucinda hampton, Scott Buxton, WikiSysop, Kim Jackson and 127.0.0.1  

Introduction

Falls in older people have been characterized extensively in the literature, however little has been reported regarding falls in middle-aged and younger adults. Falls and fall-related injuries are not uncommon in young adults and may be considered a lifestyle issue related to sports and vigorous activity.

The reporting of falls increased with age from 18% in young, to 21% in middle-aged and 35% in older adults, with higher rates in women than men.

In the US in 2020, 805 workers died in falls, and 211,640 were injured badly enough to require days off of work.

Risk factors:

• Sport: Among younger people, more than 42% of falls occur while they are engaged in exercise or sports, or while they are running (that is, not running for the purpose of exercise or during a sport; rather, running to catch a bus, for example).
• Young people with impaired gait and balance or medium/severe motor disability appear to be at increased risk of falling, particularly if they are relatively independent and still participating in challenging activities.
• Occupations at elevated heights or other hazardous working conditions. Construction workers are most at risk for fatal falls from height – more than seven times the rate of other industries – but falls can happen anywhere, even at a "desk job."
• Alcohol or substance use
• Multitasking
• Walking aids, wheelchairs and environmental hazards are significant environmental risk factors for people with a neurological condition.

Prevention

Whether working from a ladder, roof or scaffolding, plan ahead, assess the risk and use the correctt equipment. Determine if working from a height is absolutely necessary or if there is another way to do the task safely. Examples of steps taken include;

• Check the work area for potential hazards before commencing the job
• Ensure you have level ground to set up the equipment, placing the ladder on a solid surface, never lean it against an unstable surface
• Never work in inclement weather
• Check the stepladders have a locking device to hold the front and back open
• Always keep two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand on the ladder
• Securely fasten straight and extension ladders to an upper support
• Wear slip-resistant shoes
• Don't stand higher than the third rung from the top
• Don't lean or reach while on a ladder, and have someone support the bottom
• Never use old or damaged equipment; check thoroughly before use

DIY home projects

You are better getting professional help for risky projects, for example installing siding, gutters or roofs. Don't risk a fall.

• Practice all of the ladder safety tips mentioned above
• Keep the work area clear of hazards and immediately clean up spills
• Read all instructions and safety precautions on your equipment
• Don't wear loose clothing that can get caught in equipment

Fall-proof your home

• Keep floors and surfaces clear of clutter
• Keep file cabinets and desk drawers closed
• Keep electrical and phone cords out of traffic areas
• Install handrails on stairways
• Wear sensible footwear
• Never stand on chairs, tables or any surface with wheels
• Properly arrange furniture to create open pathways
• Maintain good lighting indoors and out