Preventing Falls at Home

About Falls

In 2018-19, falls were the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations, accounting for 3 out of 4 presentations to hospitals. Older people are almost 12 times more likely to have a fall than a motor vehicle or pedestrian accident.

Falls are Common Among Older People

At least one-third of people aged 65 years and over fall one or more times a year. Falls can cause:

• Hip and wrist fractures
• Chest injuries, including rib fractures
• Hip and shoulder dislocations
• Head injuries
• Abrasions, bruising, and sprains
• Fear of falling, leading to loss of confidence and restricted activities

What Causes People to Fall

Factors contributing to falls include:

• Age-related changes like poor eyesight, slowed reaction time, and reduced sensation in lower limbs
• Weak muscles and stiff joints
• Health problems or side effects from medications
• Poor diet, dehydration, or low calcium levels
• Unsafe footwear or trip hazards like rugs and poor lighting

How to Prevent Falls

Falls are not inevitable. Steps to prevent falls include:

• Improving safety in and around the home
• Staying active with exercises like tai chi to improve balance and strength
• Wearing comfortable, well-fitting shoes with slip-resistant soles

Improve Safety Inside

• Ensure good lighting, especially near stairs and bathrooms
• Remove clutter and secure rugs
• Install grab rails in bathrooms and near steps
• Avoid polished floorboards and slippery surfaces

Improve Safety Outside

• Clear garden tools and slippery leaves
• Repair broken paths and ensure steps are well lit
• Avoid using ladders; ask for assistance

Stay Healthy

• Talk to your doctor about diet, medications, and managing chronic conditions
• Have regular eye tests and podiatrist visits
• Maintain adequate vitamin D levels and stay hydrated
• Engage in physical activity to keep muscles strong and joints flexible

What to Do if You Fall at Home

• Stay calm and call for help if needed
• If you can get up, roll onto your stomach, crawl to stable furniture, and push yourself up
• If you can’t get up, keep warm and use a personal alarm or make noise to alert others

Where to Get Help

• In an emergency: Call triple zero (000)
• Your GP (doctor)
• Local community health services
• Victorian Falls and Balance Service Directory
• My Aged Care Tel. 1800 200 422
• Carers Australia Tel. 1800 422 737
• COTA Tel. (03) 9655 2100
• Independent Living Centre Victoria Tel. 1300 885 886