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Monterey Personal Injury Lawyer > Blog > General > Older Americans Month: Protecting Older Adults And Reducing The Risk Of Personal Injuries In Monterey

Older Americans Month: Protecting Older Adults And Reducing The Risk Of Personal Injuries In Monterey

Retirees

May is National Older Americans Month. It highlights the achievements of older adults over the age of 60 and raises awareness of some of the common issues they face. One of the biggest concerns is their increased accident risk. The natural effects of aging create vulnerabilities, which not only increase the risk of personal injuries in Monterey but also the severity of the harm suffered. Our Monterey personal injury lawyer explains what older adults and their loved ones can do to make them less likely to happen.

Factors That Increase Older Adult Personal Injury Risks

The White House recently released a proclamation declaring May Older Americans Month. It began when President John F. Kennedy was in the White House for the purpose of focusing attention on some of the common issues older adults face.

This year’s proclamation highlights recent improvements in lowering prescription drug costs, making hearing aids more accessible, and extending funding for Medicaid and other important services. Throughout the month, local, state, and national public safety officials will be addressing some of the most common challenges people over the age of 60 face. Among these is the increased risk of accidental injuries.

Unfortunately, natural declines that occur as we age make older adults more susceptible. Some of the common factors that increase the risk include:

  • Diminished mobility and coordination, making older adults more accident-prone;
  • Slower reflexes, making it more difficult for them to respond to potential threats;
  • Reduced vision and hearing, causing them to miss signs that an accident may be imminent;
  • Chronic health conditions and the need for certain types of medications, which often play a role in personal injuries.

How To Reduce The Risk Of Older Adult Accidents

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), personal injuries are among the leading causes of death among people over the age of 60. Falls and motor vehicle accidents are the most common ways for them to happen. Steps that can help to reduce the risks include:

To Prevent Falls 

  • Choose supportive shoes with anti-slip soles;
  • Consider using a cane, walker, or other devices as needed;
  • Reduce clutter and other trip hazards at home;
  • Be mindful of wet floors, uneven sidewalks, and other hazards when out in public.

To Prevent Motor Vehicle Accidents

  • Discuss with your doctor any health conditions you have or medications you may be taking that could impact your driving abilities;
  • Have your vision and hearing checked regularly;
  • Consider taking a driving refresher course, particularly if you have gotten a ticket or had a fender bender;
  • As a pedestrian, use caution when crossing busy streets in Monterey and never assume drivers see you or will stop.

Reach Out To Our Monterey Personal Injury Lawyer

At The Allen Law Firm, we protect older adults and their families when personal injuries happen.  To get the compensation you need to recover, reach out and call or contact our Monterey personal injury lawyer online and request a consultation today.

Sources:

whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2023/04/28/a-proclamation-on-older-americans-month-2023/

cdc.gov/stillgoingstrong/about/common-injuries-as-we-age.html

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