Latest Slip and Fall Statistics in Australia and New Zealand (2023)
Falls and fall injuries are a major public health concern in Australia and New Zealand, particularly among older adults. With an aging population, the incidence of falls and fall-related injuries is expected to increase, highlighting the need for effective prevention strategies. In this blog, we will explore the most recent statistics on falls and fall injuries in Australia and New Zealand from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s report on falls and the Australian and New Zealand Falls Prevention Society (ANZFPS). The data includes the prevalence and impact of falls, the risk factors associated with falls, and the strategies being implemented to prevent falls and improve outcomes for those affected.
By understanding the scale and scope of this issue, we can work towards reducing the incidence and severity of falls and fall injuries, and improving the quality of life for older adults in our communities. Read more slip and fall statistics related to these two countries below:
Key takeaways:
Falls and fall injuries are a significant public health concern in Australia and New Zealand, particularly among older adults.
In 2020-2021, 42% of hospitalised injury cases and 40% of accidental injury deaths in Australia were due to falls.
58% of hospitalisations in 2020–21 and 94% of deaths in 2019–20 were for people aged 65 and over.
Falls can lead to severe injuries, including fractures, head injuries, and even death, making it a critical area of concern.
Treatment of injuries from falls in older people cost over $2.3 billion in 2020.
The fear of falling and the associated loss of confidence can result in decreased activity levels and social isolation, further exacerbating the impact of falls-related injuries.
A well-implemented national fall prevention strategy could reduce falls by 30% within 12 months.
Falls on stairs or steps can be particularly dangerous, involving high-impact injuries, such as fractures, head injuries, and spinal cord injuries.
With an ageing population, the risk of fall-related injuries, particularly hip fractures, is likely to increase.
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In 2020-2021, 42% of hospitalised injury cases and 40% of accidental injury deaths in Australia were due to falls.
Falls resulted in 243,000 hospitalisation cases in Australia in the same period. This means that around 950 people per 100,000 population were hospitalised due to falls. Moreover, falls also resulted in 5,300 deaths per 100,000 people. This statistic highlights the significant impact of falls on public health in Australia. Falls can lead to severe injuries, including fractures, head injuries, and even death, making it a critical area of concern.
The very oldest were most at risk of hospitalisation. There were 17,200 hospitalisations per 100,000 for Australians aged 95 and over in 2020–21.
58% of hospitalisations in 2020–21 and 94% of deaths in 2019–20 were for people aged 65 and over. Seniors are more prone to falls due to a combination of factors, including declining physical function, changes in balance and gait, and age-related changes in vision and cognition.
Treatment of injuries from falls in older people cost over $2.3 billion in 2020
This statistic only goes to show that the economic impact of falls is significant, not only in terms of healthcare costs but also in terms of the impact on families and individuals. The cost of falls-related injuries extends beyond direct healthcare costs and can have multiple flow-on effects on individuals, families, and society as a whole. For example, falls-related injuries can result in the loss of independence and mobility for older adults, which can have a significant impact on their quality of life and ability to participate in social and community activities. Falls can also result in lost income and productivity for individuals and their families, as well as increased pressure on the healthcare system, ambulance services, and other support services.
In addition to the economic impact, fall-related injuries can also have a significant emotional and psychological impact on individuals and their families. The fear of falling and the associated loss of confidence can result in decreased activity levels and social isolation, further exacerbating the impact of falls-related injuries.
Keep reading: Falls Prevention Strategies in Aged Care and for the Elderly
A well-implemented national fall prevention strategy could reduce falls by 30% within 12 months.
The report published by the Australian and New Zealand Falls Prevention Society (ANZFPS), backed by researchers, academics, clinicians and consumer groups, called for urgent and coordinated action to save lives and reverse the upward trend when it comes to falls. This proactive approach would not only reduce healthcare costs but also improve the overall quality of life for the elderly population.
Older Australians hospitalised due to a fall had an average length of stay in the hospital of 9.5 days.
Currently in Australia, over 1.2 million hospital bed days are utilised by people over 65 years, admitted because of a fall. Falls can result in a range of injuries, from minor bruises and cuts to more serious injuries, such as fractures, head injuries, and internal bleeding. These injuries often require hospitalisation, which can be a significant burden on the healthcare system and the individual.
The average length of hospital stay for older adults who are admitted due to a fall is 9.5 days, which can have a significant impact on their health and well-being. Lengthy hospital stays can lead to complications, such as hospital-acquired infections, and can result in a loss of mobility and independence, which can further increase the risk of falls and other adverse health outcomes.
In 2022, 7% of falls leading to hospitalisation involved stairs or steps
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, falls on stairs or steps can be particularly dangerous because they often involve high-impact injuries, such as fractures, head injuries, and spinal cord injuries. These injuries can lead to prolonged hospitalisations, costly medical treatments, and reduced quality of life.
There are several factors that may contribute to falls on stairs or steps, such as poor lighting, cluttered or obstructed steps, loose or slippery surfaces, and inadequate handrails or guardrails. Additionally, older adults and individuals with mobility or balance issues may be at an increased risk of falling on stairs or steps, as their physical capabilities decline.
The cost of hip fractures is expected to increase from an estimated $139-209 million in 2017 to $321-482 million by 2051.
With an ageing population, the risk of fall-related injuries, particularly hip fractures, is likely to increase. In New South Wales, the estimated population of people aged 65 and over is expected to rise from 1.27 million people in 2017 to 2.27 million people in 2051, increasing the cost of hip fractures from an estimated $139-209 million in 2017 to $321-482 million by 2051. In addition, hip fracture cases are expected to double by 2026 and increase fourfold by 2051. Hip fractures are a serious and often costly injury, particularly among older adults. The statistic suggests that in 2017, hip fractures cost an estimated $139-209 million, and by 2051, this cost is projected to increase to $321-482 million. This significant cost is due to a range of factors, including the direct medical costs of hospitalisation, surgery, and rehabilitation, as well as indirect costs, such as lost productivity, reduced quality of life, and the need for ongoing care and support.
To address the increasing burden of hip fractures and fall-related injuries, there is a need for a comprehensive approach to fall prevention and management, particularly among older adults. This may include a combination of strategies, such as improving the safety of the environment, reducing the risk of falls through exercise programs and mobility aids, and providing appropriate care and support for those who have experienced a fall or hip fracture.
Related reading: Why Hip Injuries Cause So Much Damage to the Elderly
In 2022, the Accident Compensation Corporation in New Zealand accepted 749,610 claims relating to fall-related injuries, with a cost of $1.8 billion.
According to the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC), Falls account for 39% of all ACC claims in New Zealand, with one in three people over 65 injuring themselves in a fall every year, rising to one in two for people aged 80 or over. Over the last six years, fall-related injuries have cost the taxpayers $8.6b. This financial burden highlights the importance of prioritising fall prevention strategies and interventions, which can help reduce the number of falls and the resulting injuries, leading to reduced healthcare costs and improved quality of life for those affected.
It is also worth noting that these costs are likely to increase as the population ages, highlighting the need for a coordinated approach to fall prevention that focuses on addressing the underlying risk factors that contribute to falls. This approach could involve education, environmental modifications, and the provision of targeted exercise programs to improve strength and balance. By addressing these underlying risk factors and implementing effective fall prevention strategies, it may be possible to reduce the number of falls and the associated healthcare costs, while improving the overall health and well-being of individuals in the community.
In 2020–21, people living in very remote areas were 1.4 times as likely to be hospitalised due to a fall as people living in Inner regional areas
This statistic from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare is significant because it highlights the disparities in healthcare access and services across different regions in the country. Individuals living in remote areas may face additional challenges in accessing healthcare services, including a lack of resources, long travel times, and limited medical facilities. These factors may contribute to delays in seeking medical attention after a fall, leading to more severe injuries and a higher likelihood of hospitalisation.
Fall Prevention is the key
The slips and falls statistics above show just how prevalent the risk of injuries caused by falls can be. And these are just not just limited to the elderly, but also those who are lone workers, people living with disabilities and need support in times of emergencies, even in their own homes. Fall prevention is crucial because falls can have a significant impact on an individual's physical and mental health, as well as their quality of life. Falls can lead to injuries, disabilities, and even death, particularly in older adults. Falls can also cause anxiety and fear, which can lead to a reduced level of activity, social isolation, and depression.
Preventing falls is essential because it can help individuals maintain their independence, mobility, and overall well-being. Fall prevention can involve a range of strategies, such as modifying the environment to reduce hazards, improving balance and strength through exercise, using appropriate footwear, and ensuring that medications are taken correctly. Implementing these strategies can reduce the risk of falls and improve the overall health and safety of individuals, particularly older adults.
Moreover, fall prevention is also critical from a public health perspective. Falls are a significant burden on the healthcare system and can lead to increased healthcare costs, hospitalisations, and long-term care needs. By implementing effective fall prevention strategies, we can reduce the number of falls, hospitalisations, and healthcare costs, and improve the overall health and quality of life of individuals and communities.
How to prevent falls at home:
Stay physically active: Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or other exercises that improve balance, strength, and flexibility.
Keep your home safe: Make sure your home is well-lit, remove tripping hazards such as loose rugs and clutter, install handrails on stairs, and use non-slip mats in the bathroom.
Wear appropriate footwear: Wear shoes with good support and non-slip soles, and avoid wearing shoes with high heels or worn soles.
Review medications: Some medications can increase the risk of falls, so it's important to regularly review your medications with your healthcare provider.
Have your vision checked: Regular eye check-ups can help detect vision problems that can increase the risk of falls.
Be aware of hazards in public places: Be cautious when walking on uneven or wet surfaces, and be aware of obstacles and tripping hazards.
Use mobility aids if needed: If you use a walking aid, make sure it is the correct height and in good condition.
Suggested Reading: Balance Exercises for Seniors: Prevent Falls and Injuries
How Tunstall can help
In recent years, Tunstall Healthcare has become a vocal advocate for increased fall prevention measures. We recognise the significant impact that falls can have on individuals and communities, particularly among the elderly and those living with disabilities. As a result, Tunstall has developed innovative personal alarms, such as the Tunstall Gem4, which comes with an automatic fall detection feature. The device is designed to provide peace of mind to users and their families, enabling wearers to call for help with just a press of a button in case of an emergency. We also partner with leading Allied Healthcare providers and retirement communities to help people live healthy, independent lives in the place of their choose, regardless of their age or ability.
Despite taking adequate precautions, falls are still a possibility for us all so it is important to have access to help at any time. Contact our team today for more information.
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