More than a slip: Dangers of falls in old age

By Sam Efararo
Renowned nationalist, lawyer, statesman and first Premier of the old Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo died in the bathroom of his Ikenne home on May 9, 1987. Although the exact circumstances of his death were never officially established, some have speculated that the 78-year-old elder statesman may have slipped while taking his bath.
Whether or not that was the case, his death reminds us of a reality often overlooked in Nigeria: falls are a major health threat facing older adults.
Studies from Spain, Italy and Brazil consistently show that between one-quarter and one-third of adults aged 70 years and above experience at least one fall each year. Nigerian studies...