Falls Prevention for Seniors: Reducing Falls Risk at Home

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among older Australians. While ageing can increase the risk of falls, many falls can be prevented through regular exercise, home safety improvements, medication reviews, and ongoing support.

Whether you receive Support at Home services, a Home Care Package, or privately funded care, understanding falls prevention can help you maintain independence, confidence, and quality of life.

Why Falls Are So Common in Older Adults

As we age, changes in balance, strength, eyesight, hearing, and reaction time can increase the likelihood of falling.

Common Risk Factors include:

  • Reduced Muscle Strength

  • Poor Balance

  • Vision Changes

  • Certain Medications

  • Foot Pain or Inappropriate Footwear

  • Chronic Health Conditions

  • Cluttered or Poorly Lit Homes

  • Previous Falls

People who have experienced one fall are more likely to experience another, making early intervention important

senior woman staying active with a morning walk by the coast, prevent falls with exercise, prevent elderly falls

How to Reduce Your Risk of Falling

Stay Active

Regular physical activity helps improve:

  • Balance

  • Strength

  • Coordination

  • Flexibility

Activities such as:

  • Walking

  • Tai Chi

  • Gentle Strength Exercises

  • Physiotherapy Programs

  • Chair Based Exercises

can all help reduce falls risk.

Review Your Medications

Some medications can cause:

  • Dizziness

  • Drowsiness

  • Low Blood Pressure

  • Confusion

Speak with your GP or Pharmacist if you experience any of these symptoms.

A medication review may identify ways to reduce your risk.

elderly woman overwhelmed when looking at all her medications, reviewing medication after fall, medication review

Have Regular Eye and Hearing Checks

Vision and hearing play a major role in maintaining balance and awareness.

Regular assessments can identify:

  • Cataracts

  • Glaucoma

  • Macular degeneration

  • Hearing loss

which may increase the likelihood of falls.

Maintain Strong Bones and Muscles

Adequate nutrition supports mobility and bone health.

Important nutrients include:

  • Calcium

  • Vitamin D

  • Protein

Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about deficiencies or osteoporosis.

elderly man has an eye examination, eye testing, elderly falls prevention strategies

Home Safety Tips to Prevent Falls

More than half of falls among older Australians occur at home. Simple changes can make a significant difference.

older lady with a cane getting up after falling over in her home, tips for preventing falls in the home

Stairs and Steps

  • Install sturdy handrails

  • Highlight stair edges

  • Repair uneven surfaces

  • Keep stairs clear

Outdoor Areas

  • Remove moss and debris

  • Repair cracked paths

  • Store garden tools safely

  • Improve outdoor lighting

Falls Alarms and Personal Safety Devices

Personal alarms can provide peace of mind for older people living independently.

Many modern falls alarms can:

  • Detect falls automatically

  • Contact emergency services

  • Alert family members

  • Provide GPS location tracking

These devices can help ensure assistance is available when needed.

Floors and Walkways

  • Remove loose rugs

  • Clear clutter

  • Secure electrical cords

  • Keep walkways unobstructed

Lighting

  • Install brighter lighting

  • Use night lights

  • Add sensor lights outside

  • Improve visibility on stairs

Bathrooms

  • Install grab rails

  • Use non-slip mats

  • Keep floors dry

  • Consider shower chairs if required

What To Do After A Fall

If a fall occurs:

Seek Immediate Help If:

  • There is severe pain

  • A head injury is suspected

  • The person cannot move

  • The person loses consciousness

Call 000 immediately.

If No Serious Injury Is Present

  • Stay calm

  • Take a moment to assess injuries

  • Move slowly

  • Contact a family member, carer, or healthcare professional

Even minor falls should be discussed with your doctor, as they may indicate an underlying health issue.

old man gets his bruise checked out after falling, elderly falls, recovering after a fall

Recovering After A Fall

Recovery often involves more than physical healing.

Support may include:

  • Physiotherapy

  • Occupational therapy

  • Strength and balance programs

  • Home modifications

  • Ongoing support services

Many older people also develop a fear of falling after an incident. Maintaining activity and receiving appropriate support can help rebuild confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes most falls in older people?

Falls are often caused by a combination of poor balance, muscle weakness, medications, vision changes, and environmental hazards.

Can falls be prevented?

Many falls can be prevented through exercise, home modifications, medication reviews, and regular health checks.

Are falls alarms worth it?

Falls alarms can provide additional safety and peace of mind, particularly for people living alone.

What should I do if my parent keeps falling?

Arrange a GP review and consider a falls risk assessment. Home modifications and support services may also help reduce future falls

How Support at Home Services Can Help Prevent Falls

Support at Home services can assist older Australians to remain safe and independent at home.

Services may include:

A tailored care plan can help address individual falls risks while supporting independence.

Concerned About Falls at Home?

Bannister In Home Care can help older Australians remain safe, independent, and confident in their own homes through tailored Support at Home and home care services.

Contact our team today to discuss how we can support you or your loved one.