Physical injuries

It has been estimated that between 5 and 10% of all falls result in serious injuries. In Great Britain, 400,000 older people are admitted into hospital each year because of a fall related injury. Although hip fractures account for only 1% of all falls in old people, their consequences are serious e.g. increased physical dependency, pain, hospital and increased social care costs.

Another consequence of falling is the 'long lie'. A person who is unable to get up after a fall, can suffer from pressure sores, pneumonia, dehydration and hypothermia.