Senior Life
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Preventing Falls Among Older Adults
by Cindy Gray, RN
E ach year, one in four seniors experiences a fall. While some falls result in no apparent injury, others have serious consequences such as hip fractures, other broken bones, or head trauma – often requiring hospitalization. The longer someone remains on the floor after a fall, the more likely they are to be hospitalized. And the longer they lie on the floor without receiving help, the longer their hospital stay tends to be and the less likely they are to return home. Falls are not a normal part of aging. With just a few proactive steps, you can make your home and habits safer for yourself and/or your loved ones.
Many risk factors can be identified and addressed before a fall ever occurs. Physical factors include muscle weakness, poor balance, vision changes, and dizziness. If you experience any of these symptoms – or if you have concerns about the side effects of medications or a history of falls – don’t wait to talk to your healthcare provider. Environmental dangers, such as tripping hazards, are also a concern. Whether you’re a caregiver, a family member, or an older adult yourself, a good first step is taking a fall risk assessment. The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
has more information and a great assessment tool you can find on this website: CDC.gov/steadi/. You can also have a physical therapist or home care agency help pinpoint areas of concern, such as balance issues or hazards in the home – which is where most falls occur. Keep in mind that your first fall could be right around the corner, even if no risk factors are currently present in your life. With that in mind, here are a few simple changes you can make at home that will go a long way toward preventing falls: • Remove throw rugs and clutter from walkways. • Install grab bars in bathrooms and railings on both sides of stairways. • Add sensor night-lights in hallways and bedrooms. • Keep commonly used items within easy reach to avoid using step stools. • Keep cords and cables out of pathways. Another preventive approach is to stay active and involved. Movement helps maintain and even improve strength and balance, reducing the likelihood of falling. Whether it’s tai chi, chair yoga, a senior fitness class, or a daily walk, being active makes a big difference.
Many communities offer programs for older adults such as Matter of Balance, which is designed to help you build confidence, become more aware of fall risks, and learn simple strategies to reduce those risks. It’s a great way to stay safe – and keep moving. Also, be sure to review medications regularly with a healthcare provider, especially if their side effects include drowsiness or dizziness. And don’t overlook the importance of eye health. Blurred or impaired vision makes navigating spaces much more difficult. An annual eye exam is essential. It is also highly recommended that individuals living alone have a personal emergency response system (also known as a medical alert system). There are many convenient options available, including watches, necklaces, and wall monitors for your home. You can ask your community experts for help with deciding which would be the best fit. Often, bringing in trained caregivers or home safety specialists can give peace of mind. They not only assist with daily activities but also provide an extra layer of observation and guidance. Families often report greater confidence – and fewer falls – when professional support is part of the picture.
Cindy Gray, RN, is the owner/ administrator of ComForCare Home Care–Greater Orlando and a trained coach for Matter of Balance, a program for older adults.
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24 J LIFE | FALL 2025
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