How does decreased mobility contribute to the incidence and severity of burn injuries in the geriatric population?

Decreased mobility in the geriatric population significantly contributes to the incidence and severity of burn injuries, primarily because it hampers their ability to self-evacuate during emergencies such as fires. Older adults, particularly those with mobility restrictions due to physical or health conditions, may struggle to move quickly or effectively when faced with an immediate threat. This inability to escape can lead to greater exposure to flames, hot surfaces, or smoke, increasing the likelihood of sustaining burns and exacerbating their severity.

Consequently, the lack of mobility not only places seniors at a higher risk during such emergencies but also complicates their ability to seek safety or utilize available escape routes. This connection between mobility and burn risk highlights the importance of addressing mobility issues and implementing safety measures tailored to support the elderly during fire-related incidents.