Falls can be fatal.
This is not a lie.
Statistically, the leading cause of death among seniors (65 years +) is falls. In 2006, there were 16,650 fall-related deaths or 37% of all deaths among the elderly.
So what about falls in nursing homes. Do they happen?
Yes, they happen, and sometimes the staff is at fault, not always, but sometimes.
Staff may be to blame (legally speaking) if they have (1) failed to evaluate someone as a fall risk or (2) have evaluated that person as a fall risk and not taken preventative measures. Like assistance, lap buddy, gait belts, etc.
There are tools, and ways to help prevent falls.
If your loved one is a known fall risk, and nothing is done…. a fall occurred and they were injured, the nursing home may or may not be liable for the fall.