Fall-related Eye Injuries On The Rise: Tips To Protect Yourself

The number of people hospitalized with an eye injury, regardless of whether it was the primary or secondary injury, is on the rise. According to a cohort study, the number rose by 18 percent over 13 years and researchers believe the majority of the increase is due to falls among adults age 65 and older.

The good news is that there are several things you can do to keep you and your loved ones safe. Here, Berks Eye Physicians and Surgeons shares more information on the study and how you can avoid fall-induced injuries.

About the Study

The study, which used information gathered by the National Inpatient Sample, looked at the number of people hospitalized for an eye injury as either the primary or secondary diagnosis. In total, there were nearly a million hospital inpatient admissions for eye injuries as either the primary or secondary diagnosis between 2001 and 2014. While the number of people primarily hospitalized for an eye injury decreased, the number of people admitted for another reason that also had suffered an eye injury rose 31 percent. Researchers estimate that 82 percent of the increase in secondary eye injuries was due to falls in older adults. The rate of falls in the U.S. has increased steadily over the past 10 years.

The study noted that common eye injuries included orbital fracture, black eye and damage to the eyelids and tear glands.

Ways You Can Reduce Your Risk of Fall-Related Eye Injuries

Here are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of suffering a fall-related eye injury:

• Get your eyes checked regularly for eye problems and diseases that affect vision and increase the risk of falling.
• Keep your prescription eyewear updated to make sure you can see as clearly as you can.
• Place non-slip mats and rugs at home, including in the bathroom and on the shower floor.
• Install grab bars in the bathroom and shower.
• Keep the walking paths in your home clear and free of clutter that could potentially cause you to trip and fall.
• Make sure your home is well lit.

For more tips or to discuss an existing eye problem or disease, please schedule a personal consultation with Berks Eye Physicians and Surgeons. Contact our office by calling or emailing us today.