Health clinicians are warning older residents in Bardon to avoid climbing ladders at home, after a local fall and hospital data showing increasing admissions linked to ladder and roof injuries.
Bardon Fall Brings Risks Into Focus
A 70-year-old Bardon resident fell more than three metres in November 2025 while cleaning second-storey windows at his home when an extension ladder gave way.
He called Triple Zero (000) and was taken to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, where he underwent tests in the emergency department and later returned home with bruising and soreness.
Hospital Admissions Rising At RBWH
The Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital reports ladder and roof fall presentations have been rising year-on-year since 2022.
Between July 2023 and July 2025, the hospital admitted 189 patients for ladder and roof falls, with more than one-third aged 65 and older.
Hospital figures show 34 admissions in the 2023 calendar year and 64 admissions in the first half of 2025 alone.
National Numbers Show Ongoing Harm
Across Australia in 2023–24, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare figures show more than 6,000 falls on and from ladders resulted in hospitalisations.
Longer-term national hospital data has also shown ladder fall hospitalisations increased over the decade from July 2002 to June 2012, with a larger increase evident among people aged over 60.
Injuries Can Escalate Quickly For Older People
Clinicians report ladder and roof falls can be life-altering for older people and may lead to rapid medical deterioration, loss of independence, or death.
Injuries linked to ladder falls can include rib fractures, punctured lungs, and internal organ damage such as spleen and liver injuries. Some falls are linked to ladder safety issues, while others follow medical episodes including heart attack, stroke or dizzy spells.
Psychological Impacts Can Persist
Queensland research tracking patients after ladder falls found many experienced longer-lasting impacts, including sleeping problems, anxiety, depression and pain for at least six months after the incident.
The study followed 134 Queensland patients who presented to emergency departments after ladder falls, with many injuries occurring during home maintenance tasks.
Safety Steps And Alternatives
Safety advice includes using a ladder that meets Australian safety standards, placing it on a stable surface, wearing suitable clothing and footwear, and ensuring another person is present to supervise and assist.
For people aged over 60, clinicians advise having someone younger complete ladder tasks where possible, including jobs such as gutter clearing and tree trimming.
Outlook
With ladder fall admissions rising at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital and national hospitalisation figures remaining high, clinicians continue to emphasise prevention, particularly for older residents in Bardon undertaking home maintenance.
Published 17-Jan-2026
