The annual number of people hospitalized with an eye injury has increased 18 percent in 13 years, and researchers believe most of the spike is due to falls among older adults. As people live longer and elderly adults become more mobile, the rate of falls is likely to continue to increase.
But don’t let that information scare you – there are things that you can do right now to protect yourself and your loved ones from suffering fall-induced injuries.
Read on as Dr. Edward Hedaya of InVision Eye Care shares what you need to know about the key study, and explains how you can reduce your risk or your loved ones’ risk of falling and injuring the eyes.
Key Takeaways from the Study
- A cohort study using information from the National Inpatient Sample looked at the number of people hospitalized for an eye injury and hospitalized with a secondary eye injury. They studied data taken between 2001 and 2014.
- During that time, the number of people hospitalized for an eye injury decreased.
- However, the number of people hospitalized for another injury who also suffered an eye injury increased 31 percent.
- Common eye injuries included orbital fractures, black eye and damage to the eyelids and tear glands.
- Researchers believe 82 percent of the increase in secondary eye injuries is due to elderly adults falling.
Reduce Your Risk of Falling and Hurting Yourself
If you are worried about falls and related injuries, Dr. Hedaya recommends taking the following steps to reduce the risk.
- Have existing eye problems treated. Low vision from cataracts or glaucoma increases the risk of falling.
- Keep glasses or contacts prescriptions up to date.
- Rearrange household furniture to create clear walking paths.
- Make sure your home is well lit.
- Clear out clutter that could potentially cause a trip and fall.
- Install grab bars in the bathroom.
- Use rug pads to prevent throw rugs from slipping around.
- Have your feet checked if you feel unsteady. Good footwear can help.
- Stay active with exercise to improve strength and balance.
- If you have a fall, tell your doctor. Falling once doubles your chances of falling again. Your doctor may adjust your medications or suggest other lifestyle changes to reduce your risk.
Contact InVision EyeCare Today
If glaucoma, cataracts or macular degeneration is interfering with your vision and making you vulnerable to falling, Dr. Hedaya can help. He offers advanced medical solutions to these problems. Consult with Dr. Hedaya today about your options to improve your vision and reduce your chances of suffering a devastating fall.
