#75 - TBI Epidemiology in Older Adults

Data from 2013 tells us that more than 1 in 200 individuals ages 65-74, and more than 1 in 50 individuals ages 75 and older, experience a traumatic brain injury (TBI) related emergency department visit, hospitalization, or death each year.

In 2013 adults ages 75 years and older accounted for over 25% of TBI-related deaths and approximately 30% of hospitalizations in the U.S.

From 2007-2013 TBI-related Emergency department visits amongst ages 75 years and older doubled and TBI-related hospitalizations increased more than 25%.

From 2008-2017 all TBI-related deaths increased significantly by 17%. Older adults were most at risk, especially those ages 75 and older.

Despite the high incidence, older adults may be less likely to seek medical attention for a TBI and are also less likely to be accurately diagnosed even though medical attention is sought. These findings suggest that TBI incidence among older adults likely exceeds published reports.

Learn more about providing concussion care to older adults and seniors in this online guide.