Preventing falls in older Australians

Staying independent and living at home for as long as possible is a  goal for many older Australians. But there’s one invisible threat that may jeopardise that independence: falls.

Falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalisations and deaths among Australians aged 65 and over. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, over 100,000 older Australians are hospitalised due to a fall each year, and roughly 5,000 die as a result.

A fall can happen in a moment. A missed step. A wet tile. Foot caught in a rug. And while younger people may brush off a stumble and pick themselves back up without difficulty, the consequences are often serious for older adults.

However, keep in mind that falls are not an inevitable part of ageing. In most cases, preventing falls and fall‐related injuries in older people is possible.

Falls in older adults are rarely caused by just one factor. They are usually the result of a chain reaction of factors involving age-related physical changes, chronic health conditions, environmental hazards and behavioural choices.

Here are the culprits:

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The aftermath of a fall can range from a bruised ego to a broken hip. And while broken bones can heal, what often lingers is something harder to mend: fear.

This “fear of falling” can be debilitating. Older adults may begin to restrict their activity, leading to a vicious cycle of reduced movement, causing muscles to weaken further, which increases fall risk again. It’s a downward spiral that many never escape.

Falls aren’t random acts of bad luck. They’re often predictable and therefore preventable. Prevention involves more than just removing tripping hazards. It’s about building strength, awareness and support systems that allow older adults to thrive safely. Here’s how.

Exercise is the single most effective way to prevent falls. But not just any exercise. Activities that improve balance, strength and flexibility are key. Tai Chi, for instance, has been shown to reduce falls by as much as 55%. Simple resistance training, such as chair squats or leg raises, also builds muscle essential for stability. Even 30 minutes a day of walking or light activity can make a measurable difference.

Pro tip: Always consult a GP or physiotherapist before starting a new exercise regimen.

Too often, homes are filled with small risks waiting to cause big problems. A safe home starts with these practical steps:

Consider booking a home safety assessment by an Occupational Therapist (OT). This allied health professional can identify and recommend changes specific to your living environment and health status.

Poor vision and hearing are significant contributors to falls, yet they’re often overlooked. Regular eye tests help ensure that prescriptions are up to date and eye conditions like cataracts or glaucoma are managed. Similarly, hearing loss affects spatial awareness and balance. If you use glasses or hearing aids, wear them consistently and have them checked annually.

Talk to your GP or pharmacist about all medications you take, including over-the-counter ones. Some drugs, especially sedatives, antihypertensives and pain medications, can increase fall risk. Never adjust dosages yourself but do ask whether alternatives with fewer side effects are available.

This sounds simple, but it’s crucial. Slippers, socks, and even high heels can be risky. Choose well-fitting, flat shoes with non-slip soles. Avoid shoes that are loose or have thick rubber soles that could increase the risk of stumbling.

Walkers, canes and personal alarms are tools for staying mobile, confident and in control.

How to safely help someone after a fall

Even with precautions, falls can still occur. Knowing how to respond can reduce injury severity and speed up recovery.

Here are some tips to safely help someone who has fallen to avoid further injury. 

Do NOT try to get the person up straight away. 

Falls, even minor ones, should always be reported. They are a red flag indicating something

If you or a loved one is concerned about fall risk, start with your GP. Ask about:

Leora Healthcare can also assist with in-home safety checks, health assessments, home modification support, care coordination and follow-up after a fall.

Preventing falls is about giving older Australians the tools, support and confidence to keep living life on their terms safely, actively and with dignity.

Across the country, both local and national organisations are working hard to make homes safer, raise awareness and support healthy ageing.

Here are some trusted sources to explore:

These aren’t just handouts or checklists. They’re practical, proven tools that can help older Australians stay safe and keep them moving and living well.

If you or someone you care about could use help making the home safer, staying active or recovering after a fall, our team is here for you.

At Leora Healthcare, our experienced support workers can assist with:

We work with you to stay safe, confident and independent every step of the way.

Contact our team today to learn how we can support your wellbeing at home. From fall prevention strategies to hands-on daily support, Leora is here to help you live well on your terms.