adOct 5, 2026, 15:30

Falls in Haarlem: 9,575 elderly people seriously injured in the past five years

Elderly residents in Haarlem experienced 9,575 serious injuries from falls over the last five years, though recent data shows a downward trend in these incidents. Health experts note that targeted prevention programs, such as balance training and exercise, are being utilized to address the risks posed by an aging population.

Over the past five years, elderly residents in Haarlem have sustained 9,575 serious injuries, including bone fractures and brain trauma, following falls. Data provided by Vektis indicates a positive trend, as the number of these incidents has declined for the second consecutive year, dropping to 895 in the most recent reporting period. Notably, hip fracture cases in the city decreased from 135 in 2024 to 110 in 2025.

Public health experts attribute the frequency of falls in part to double aging, where the proportion of the population aged 85 and older continues to rise, as this demographic is at a higher risk for severe injuries. To combat this, preventative measures like balance training are now included in the basic health insurance package for high-risk seniors. Researchers suggest that factors such as social engagement, like volunteering, and access to outdoor spaces correlate with lower fall risks, while mental health struggles like stress or depression may increase the likelihood of such accidents.

Health Haarlem

Read original ↗

Based on reporting by ad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Concerns over ending emergency care in Hoofddorp? Information evening draws few visitors

The Spaarne Gasthuis hospital plans to centralize 24-hour emergency care in Haarlem-Zuid by 2033, effectively closing the emergency department in Hoofddorp. Despite significant public and political backlash regarding travel times, a recent information evening in Hoofddorp drew very few attendees.

Chatterbox Roderik connects people with each other

Roderik Schaepman has launched the Week of the Conversation, an initiative aimed at encouraging social interaction to combat loneliness and declining communication skills. By setting up designated spaces at locations like the Haarlem train station, he encourages people to overcome social hesitation through simple steps like greeting and complimenting strangers.

Museum of the Mind in Haarlem raises 11,500 euros for mental health

The Museum van de Geest in Haarlem raised 11,500 euros during its Walk & Talk charity event to support youth mental health awareness. The proceeds will fund educational projects aimed at helping young people address issues such as stress, depression, and burnout.

Haarlem takes financial risk with new Spaarne Gasthuis construction

Haarlem is assuming significant financial risk by providing a 100 million euro guarantee and committing to purchase the current hospital site for 25 million euros to keep the Spaarne Gasthuis in the city. The initiative ensures 24-hour emergency care remains in Haarlem, though the city has deferred requirements for building staff housing.

Concerns in Haarlemmermeer as emergency care moves to Haarlem

The Spaarne Gasthuis will move its emergency and inpatient services from Hoofddorp to a new location in Haarlem by 2033 to better manage staffing shortages. Local officials in Haarlemmermeer are critical of the decision, fearing that the loss of full-service care will negatively impact the region's rapidly growing population.