Drowning deaths rise for over 55s
There has been a steep increase in drowning among people aged 55 years and over, according to a new report by the Royal Life Saving Society.
There has been a steep increase in drowning among people aged 55 years and over, according to a new report by the Royal Life Saving Society.
People aged 55 and over now account for over a third (39%) of all drowning deaths in Australiathe findings of the latest Royal Life Saving National Drowning Report 2013 revealed.
Royal Life Saving (RSL) says 114 people aged 55 years and over drowned in 2012/13. It is the highest number of drowning deaths for people aged 55 plus for 10 years. It represents a 31% increase on the 10 year average.
Justin Scarr, Royal Life Saving chief executive, called for caution in a statement made on the RLS website .
“Parents and grandparents are boating, fishing and swimming their way into retirement. Accidents involving watercraft were responsible for the largest number of drowning deaths (24%) in people aged 55 plus. There were 27 deaths.
Older swimmers need to stay safe by checking their health and fitness as well as taking precautions before heading off to enjoy the water.
Underlying medical conditions can increase the risk of drowning and are most commonly found in people aged 55 years and over. Conditions associated with increased risk of drowning include cardiac conditions and epilepsy.
Download a copy of the full Royal Life Saving National Drowning Report 2013.
