3 Hazards Related To Elder Elopement

As we age, we require more attention and supervision in order to remain safe and healthy. As such, it’s of the utmost importance that nursing homes take every measure to protect their elderly residents.Sadly, however, many nursing homes suffer from inadequate staffing and other factors that contribute to the prevalence of elder elopement. Elder elopement is when a senior wanders away from supervised care on their own. Below, we discuss three serious hazards and consequences that may result from elder elopement.

#1. Getting into an Accident

When a senior wanders outside on their own, they are at a high risk of slipping and falling, getting into a pedestrian accident, or suffering some other serious accident and injury. This is due to many seniors’ decreased physical and mental capacities that make them more vulnerable to such incidents.

FACT: According to the Alzheimer’s Association, approximately 60% of people with dementia will wander at some point.

#2. Succumbing to the Elements

Elopement and wandering can be deadly during any season of the year. Severe heat exposure can lead to serious sunburns or heat stroke while extreme cold can cause frostbite, hypothermia, and more. These conditions, while hazardous for a healthy adult, can easily become fatal for seniors.

FACT: According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, approximately 56% to 74% of winter storm-related injuries result from slipping or falling on snow or ice.

#3. Experiencing an Assault or Robbery

The sad truth is that many assailants choose targets they believe are easier to rob and harm. As such, seniors are a major target for such attacks. When a senior walks around unsupervised, they can easily become the victim of an assault, robbery, kidnapping, and more.

FACT: According to the National Center for Elder Abuse, less than 5% of individuals over the age of 65 report their victimizations to the police.

Did Your Loved One Wander Away from Their Nursing Home? Contact Us Today

It is unacceptable for nursing home residents to wander away from the facility unnoticed and unsupervised. If your loved one wandered away from their nursing home, our Baltimore nursing home abuse and neglect attorneys can help you and your family seek justice. We have decades of experience in doing so, and we’re ready to work for you.

Contact Brown & Barron, LLC at (410) 698-1717 to schedule a free consultation.