Former athlete’s recent fall highlights overlooked fall‑risk factors
Ben Melancon, a former athlete in his 70s, suffers an eye‑area injury requiring nine stitches after his latest stair fall. He says repeated falls have made him fearful of stairs, a concern echoed by fall‑prevention expert Michelle Easley. A recent Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center survey of 1,007 U.S. adults shows that 63% do not see anxiety about falling as a risk, 60% overlook hearing loss, and 74% miss the link between urgent bathroom trips and falls.
Key facts
- Melancon has fallen down stairs more than a dozen times.
- The survey was conducted by Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
- Melancon’s injury required nine stitches near his left eye.
- Easley is affiliated with the Fall Prevention Clinic.
- The survey included 1,007 U.S. adult participants.
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Why it matters
Understanding hidden risk factors can improve fall‑prevention strategies for older adults.
What changed
First published from Euronews