Statistics Netherlands reported a total of 4628 people died in 2018 after an unfortunate fall. This averages to 13 people a day, with most of the victims over the age of 80 years old. Are those steep Dutch stairs to blame? Or slippery cobblestones?
What constitutes “falling”
Only people who accidentally fell, tripped or slipped were included in the statistics. People who died after falling from a mobility assistance such as a walker or mobility scooter were not included in the analysis.
Why is there a rise in the number of deaths caused by falling?
The deaths caused by falling has been increasing for years now. This is predominantly to do with the ageing population of the Netherlands. As people get older, they lose their balance and hand eye coordination. But even when age is excluded in the assessment, Statistics Netherlands still notice an increase in falling.
Look up from your phones everyone! Let us know in the comments below if you’re reading this from your phone.
Feature image: Pexels/Pixabay
