Causes of Fatalities in Older Farmers vs. Perception of Risk

This study looks at the relationship between causes of fatal farm injuries in older farmers and their concerns about farm safety. Nebraska farm fatality data were recorded over a 10 year period. Injuries involving tractors were the most common cause of death in farmers ≥55 years of age, with the rate being highest in those ≥75. Data on cause of death were compared with results from a telephone survey in which farmers rated their concern about risk associated with various farming activities. The analysis indicated that there was a discrepancy between where farmers ≥55 perceive danger and where the greatest risk actually lies.