Causes of Burns

Question 1

What factors contribute to burns in the older population?

Answer 1

Factors that may contribute to burns in the older population include smoking, limited mobility, slower reaction time and sensory impairment

Question 2

What are some risk factors for burns?

Answer 2

Most occur in the home setting

• Household fires and smoking related injuries – 65% of adult injuries
• Lower socioeconomic status increases this risk
• Mobile homes and rental properties increases the risk two-fold
• Risk taking behaviors – smoking and alcohol impairment increase the risk four-fold