Farmers over 65 Years

• Precautions
• Fatal Accidents

Accidents involving farmers over 65 years of age account for approximately 50% of farm deaths. In an effort to reverse this trend, and focus attention on age as a risk factor, the HSA and the IFA have jointly produced videos entitled " Older, Wiser, Safer - A Practical Guide to Safety for Older Farmers"

In this video, James talks about the loss of his father to a bull attack.

Precautions

Older farmers should be aware that ageing affects mobility, eyesight and balance Examine work practices where older farmers are involved. Older farmers need to be reminded of the dangers (particularly tractors, machinery, livestock and accessing heights) Make sure that the older farmer is physically fit to carry out the work at hand They should seek help when it is needed to complete the necessary work on the farm Particular care is needed when older farmers are present when work is in progress

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Fatal Accidents

Triggers associated with fatal farm injuries suffered by farmers over the age of 65 years 2014-2023 

50% of the fatal accidents on farms over the last ten years involved persons 65 years of age or older. The majority of these fatal accidents were caused by tractors/machinery, livestock and falls from height.

Information on issues related to ageing and older people can also be obtained from Age Action Ireland. This is a national organisation for ageing and older people. 

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