Geriatric Guide: Why Falls Aren't Normal in Ageing and How to Prevent Serious Injuries

It's easy to believe that losing your balance, tripping, or even falling is something that just happens with age. You might have even heard it from friends or family members: "It's just part of getting older."

But here's the truth: Falls and near falls are common, but not all of them are inevitable. They are often preventable.

Why Near Falls Lead to Injuries (And Why You Should Act Now)

Have you ever caught yourself just in time before hitting the ground? That's a near fall, and it's a warning sign. Think of it as your body giving you a gentle nudge that something might be off—balance, strength, or maybe even vision or medication side effects.

Ignoring these signs can lead to more serious orthopaedic or neurological injuries in the future. But the good news? You can take action early with balance and coordination therapy, or guided fall prevention exercises at home. These not only improve strength but also retrain the body’s natural balance responses, helping to prevent falls before they happen.

The Physical and Emotional Cost of Falls in Older Adults

A single fall can lead to serious injuries like fractures, head trauma, or even long hospital stays. But the emotional and psychological impact is just as important—many older adults lose confidence, reduce their activity, and become more socially isolated after a fall.

This creates a vicious cycle: the less you move, the more likely you are to fall. That's why prevention matters so much—and why early action makes a difference. Prevention doesn’t just save you from injury; it helps you stay active and connected to the life you enjoy.

Fall Risk Factors: What Makes Older Adults More Vulnerable?

Not all fall risks are the same. Some you can change directly. Others you can't change—but you can work around them.

Modifiable Risk Factors: Preventing Injuries Through Physiotherapy

These are things that can be improved or changed with the right strategies, support, or treatment. Examples include:

• Muscle weakness

• Poor balance or mobility

• Medication side effects

• Footwear problems

• Lack of physical activity

• Environmental hazards (loose rugs, poor lighting, etc.)

Good news: These are the things we work on most in physiotherapy. With a personalised program of movement, strengthening, and home safety tips, these risks can often be significantly reduced.

Read more: The Fight Against Osteoporosis in the Community

Non-Modifiable Risk Factors (And How to Adapt Safely)

These are things that can't be changed, but you can still reduce your risk by adapting your environment or routines. Some examples include:

• History of previous falls

• Chronic health conditions (like Parkinson's, previous stroke, or arthritis)

• Visual or sensory impairments

Let's take vision impairment as an example. You might not be able to restore full vision, but you can reduce fall risk by:

• Keeping the layout of your home consistent

• Ensuring floors are uncluttered

• Adding good lighting, especially in hallways and bathrooms

• Using high-contrast colours for edges (e.g. stair steps or furniture corners)

These strategies help compensate for reduced vision, and keep your environment safe and predictable.

Fall Prevention Strategies: Practical Steps to Stay Safe

You don't have to tackle fall risks alone. With the help of a physiotherapist and some thoughtful changes at home, you can:

• Understand yourself better through a comprehensive falls risk assessment

• Learn about falls risk, prevention and safe falls recovery methods

• Build strength and balance

• Improve confidence in walking

• Make your environment safer

• Learn how to manage long-term health conditions more effectively

How Physiotherapists Help to Prevent Falls in Seniors

If you or a loved one is experiencing falls or near falls, don't wait for a serious injury to act. Physiotherapists are trained to assess the root cause and create a personalised fall prevention plan.

We don't just treat injuries—we help prevent them.

Fall Risk Self-Assessment for Older Adults

Ask yourself or your loved ones:

• Have you had a fall or near fall in the last 12 months?

• Do you feel unsteady when walking?

• Do you hold onto walls or furniture at home?

• Do you avoid certain activities because you're afraid of falling?

• Have you noticed changes in your strength, balance, or vision?

If you answered yes to any of these, a physiotherapist can help reduce your risk.

Disclaimer: This self-assessment is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or consultation. If you have concerns about your balance, strength, or fall risk, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Read more: What We Know About Strength And Conditioning For The Older Adult

Essential Fall Prevention Takeaways

• Falls are not a normal part of ageing

• Near falls are early warning signs of potential injuries

• Simple changes in activity and environment can reduce your risk

• Physiotherapy can help you stay stronger, steadier, and more confident

Get Your Fall Risk Assessment Today

If you've noticed any stumbles, wobbles, or moments of unsteadiness—it's not "just age." It's your body asking for support. Don't wait for a serious fall to take action. Addressing near falls now can prevent hospital visits, preserve independence, and boost confidence in daily life.

If you're caring for an older loved one, noticing small changes—like hesitancy when walking, holding furniture for support, reduced walking speed, or more frequent tripping—can be the first step in preventing a serious injury. We're here to guide you both.

Contact our team of experienced physiotherapists today for a balance and falls risk assessment. Let's keep you steady, safe, and living fully.