Brain injuries can be catastrophic medical events with far-reaching consequences for those that experience them. According to head injury charity Headway, well over 350,000 people are admitted to hospital with acquired brain injuries each year. The older population of the UK are at higher risk of suffering head injuries, and suffering their consequences – so, what can carers and guardians do to meet this risk equitably?
Heightened Risk for Older People
It is a simple fact that people above the State Pension age are more susceptible to accidents and injuries, brain injuries amongst them. There are numerous variables that account for this increased risk, from the relative infirmity of the older body to the prevalence of medicines used to treat old-age health issues – medicines that can come with their own deleterious side effects.
Not only do older-age citizens tend to exhibit weaker muscles and motor skills, but also poorer balance and hand-eye co-ordination. Together with medicinal variables and newfound difficulties navigating alone, brain injuries are a serious risk. In the event of a brain injury, the outcomes are much more serious than with a younger victim; bleeding and swelling can be harder to stop, and the physical and mental consequences much more impactful.
Creating a Safe Environment
The essential manner in which those reaching later life can be protected from the risk of injury is through the installation of accessibility measures and equipment in their home. Grab rails in toilets and on stairs can make it easier for them to traverse without being unsteady on their feet, while stairlifts and elevators can make navigating the home a leisurely undertaking.
Crucially, though, it is important to understand that not all accidents are fully preventable through these actions. There remains the possibility that some part of your safety arrangements could fail, whether through faulty equipment, problematic installation or the negligent actions of someone in a position of guardianship over an older vulnerable person. In cases like this, brain injury solicitors are a useful contact for navigating next steps after injury – and wise to bear in mind in case of the worst-case scenario.
Promoting Fitness
As a final point, there are some other, direct and active ways in which the risk of brain injury can be reduced for a pension-age friend or family member. Active exercise can help keep the body limber, reducing the risk of imbalance or fall. Increased fitness levels can also make the impacts of an accident much less severe, as they are more to catch their fall in a safe manner.
Fitness doesn’t just refer to muscle and joint strength, though. Mental fitness and exercise can also be crucial in improving safety at home and out and about, as well as for improving outcomes with regard to potential brain or head injuries. Engaging ‘brain training’ exercises such as Sudoku puzzles can keep the mind active, and ensure that older family members remain present and aware when navigating their home or neighbourhood.