New research has shed light on the stark seriousness of falls among senior populations in Montreal, particularly during the frosty winter months. Findings divulged by Montreal public health on Monday underscore the areas of greatest risk, with parking lots posing a significant hazard. The researchers behind this study have expressed a sincere hope that their findings inspire decisive action on the part of the city to expedite snow removal and potentially reconsider their existing strategies.
Within Canadian borders, falls are the leading culprit behind hospitalizations and fatalities incurred from injuries among individuals aged 65 and older. Data specific to Montreal presents a troubling portrait of the reality. During the span of 2020 to 2021, falls resulted in the hospitalization of 6,600 individuals. A prominent majority of these victims, numbering around 5,400, were over the age of 65, while 2,600 seniors were over the age of 85.
An interesting difference between the sexes is noted within the study. While the incidence of falls among males seemed to level off between the ages of 60 to 89, women were not as fortunate. The frequency of falls for women experienced a steady upward trend right up to the age of 89. The significance of these findings transcends beyond the data, painting a compelling plea for better fall prevention, especially during winter.
