Are grey nomads taking too many risks near water?
Retiring baby boomers are hitting the open road in record numbers, embracing the challenges of their new lifestyle, taking up different hobbies, and seeking out adventure as they go.
But grey nomads need to be careful as they aim to enjoy all that life has to offer along the highways and byways of Australia. A new report from the Royal Life Saving Society reveals that people taking up water sports in their retirement have significantly driven up the number of Australian drownings.
The Society’s annual drowning report says that, of the 291 drowning deaths between June 30 last year and July 1, 2013, 114 were over-55s. The figure is the highest in 10 years for the age group, which now accounts for more than a third of the total. The statistics are not broken down to show how many of the drowning fatalities were people taking big trips around Australia.
“We’re finding our parents and grandparents are boating and fishing their way into retirement,” said the Royal Life Saving Society chief executive, Justin Scarr.
The report said accidents involving watercraft were responsible for 27 drowning deaths in people over 55 years old.
Underlying medical conditions including heart disease, high blood pressure and epilepsy.is thought to have contributed to the drowning deaths of 50 people, many of them older men. Sometimes medications can also affect balance, potentially posing a threat for over-55s when out on the water.
More than a third of drownings occurred in inland waterways including rivers, creeks, lakes and dams compared to one-fifth at the beach.
Interestingly, just 11 people who drowned in Australia last year were overseas tourists, mainly from European countries.
People Aged 55+ (activity immediately prior to drowning death)
Bathing 5%
Diving 5%
Falls 14%
Fishing 4%
Non-aquatic Transport 9%
Rescue 2%
Rock Fishing 4%
Swept In 1%
Swimming & Recreating 15%
Watercraft 24%
Unknown 18%
Australian drownings by state
NSW – 104, down from 105
QLD – 64, down from 75
WA – 46, up from 29
VIC – 41, up from 37
SA – 14, steady
NT – 9, down from 10
TAS – 9, down from 13
ACT – 4, up from 1
* Above statistics from The Royal Life Saving Society National Drowning Report for 2012/13.
Are you shocked by the number of drownings? Have you witnessed unnecessary risk-taking? Comment below
