Connecticut residents of all ages face certain environmental hazards that make them more likely to fall and injure themselves, but when older Americans fall down, their injuries can prove even more serious and deadly. At Kennedy Johnson Schwab & Roberge, LLC, we understand just how much the negligence of others can negatively impact your life, and we have helped many people who fell on private or public property pursue appropriate recourse.

According to the National Council on Aging, falls are now the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among older adults, resulting in more than 27,000 deaths and 800,000 hospitalizations annually. While falls can present obvious physical hardships for older Americans by making it more difficult for them to move around, many older people who fall also experience additional negative effects, such as depression, social isolation and overall physical decline.

Just what is it that is making today’s aging Americans fall down? While certain factors, such as poor lighting, icy sidewalks or cluttered aisles or stairways can cause anyone to suffer a slip-and-fall accident, older Americans often have additional risk factors working against them that increase their risk of falling.

For example, many older people develop vision problems as they age, which can make it harder for them to notice when potential obstructions block their way. Many older Americans also undergo surgical procedures or rely on multiple prescription medications, both of which can also make them more likely to fall down due to environmental factors. You can find out more about premises liability by visiting our webpage.