If you’re concerned about an older Australian who has recently experienced a fall, you’re not alone. It’s a common occurrence, with 1 in 4 people aged over 65 having a fall at least once a year. The consequences of falls for older Australians can be debilitating.

9 out of 10 hip fractures in older Australians are caused by falls.

They can lead to a loss of confidence, which can increase the risk of falling again. Falls are one of the main reasons that seniors are admitted to hospital or move into an aged care facility.

The good news is that many falls are preventable, and there are steps older Australians can take to reduce their risk.

So, what are some ways to reduce your risk of falling?

Keep physically active

You should aim to do 30 minutes of physical activity every day of the week. This helps you stay strong and improve your balance.

Ensure lighting is adequate

You should make sure the lights are turned on when you are walking around at night. Consider leaving your hallway lights on at night.

Keep walkways clear

Keeping walkways clear of clutter will help to remove tripping hazards.

Prevent slipping

Try to use non-slip mats in wet areas such as the shower or bathroom. Installing handrails in your shower or bath can also reduce your risk of slipping. Well-fitting shoes can also help reduce your risk of slipping.

Review your medications

Some medications can cause side effects such as drowsiness, confusion, unsteadiness or dizziness – all symptoms that can increase your risk of falling. Asking your doctor to review medications may help to reduce your risk of side effects.

Hip protectors can be worn inside special underwear and positioned underneath the hips. These help to prevent you from breaking a hip if you do have a fall.

Risk factors for falls

Various medical conditions which are common in older Australians can increase your risk of falling. These include:

· Low blood pressure: Low blood pressure can make you feel unsteady, dizzy or light headed when moving around.
· Stroke, Parkinson’s or arthritis: These conditions can stop you from reacting quickly if you stumble
· Diabetes: Changes in blood sugar levels can make you feel faint
· Depression:  Depression in older adults is common. Some antidepressants can increase your risk of falling
· Cataracts: Cataracts reduce your eyesight, increasing your risk of falling. Therefore, if you do have cataracts, it is important to have surgery to remove them.
· Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease
· Malnutrition and Dehydration: These conditions can reduce your strength, making it more difficult to move around safely.
In addition, there are several natural parts of the ageing process that can increase the risk of falling. These include:
· Weaker muscles and stiffer joints: This may reduce your balance and change the way you walk and move around
· Slower reaction times
· Difficulty concentrating on multiple things at once
· Poorer eyesight: This may reduce your ability to judge distances and depth

Osteoporosis does not increase your risk of falling. However, it does increase the chance of you breaking a bone if you do fall.

Many people dismiss falls as a lack of concentration or simply a part of getting older. However, they can be a sign of broader medical issues. Therefore, if you do have a fall, it is important to consult a doctor.

Falls are not an unavoidable part of the ageing process. You should take steps to prevent them wherever possible.

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Article References

Australian Government (n.d.) Don’t fall for it, Australian Government, accessed 14 October 2024

Health Direct (n.d.) Older People And Falls, Health Direct, accessed 14 October 2024