Key Takeaways
- One in three Australians over 65 will experience a fall each year — but most are preventable
- Key risk factors: muscle weakness, medications (4+), poor lighting, loose rugs, vision problems
- Regular balance and strength exercises can reduce falls by up to 40%
- Ask your GP or pharmacist for a medication review if you're taking four or more medications
- A professional home safety assessment can identify hazards you may not notice
Falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalisation for older Australians. Each year, approximately one in three people over 65 will experience a fall — and the consequences can be life-changing. But falls are not an inevitable part of ageing. Most falls are preventable with the right knowledge and preparation.
Why Falls Matter
A fall can result in:
- Fractures (particularly hip fractures, which have a 30% mortality rate within 12 months in older adults)
- Head injuries
- Loss of confidence and fear of falling (which leads to reduced activity and further decline)
- Loss of independence and premature entry to residential aged care
- Extended hospital stays and rehabilitation
Common Risk Factors
Physical factors
Muscle weakness, poor balance, joint stiffness, foot problems, vision impairment, dizziness
Medications
Sedatives, blood pressure medications, antidepressants, taking 4+ medications (polypharmacy)
Home hazards
Loose rugs, poor lighting, clutter, slippery floors, no grab rails, stairs without handrails
Health conditions
Parkinson's disease, stroke, diabetes (neuropathy), dementia, arthritis, incontinence (rushing to toilet)
Home Safety Checklist
Bathroom
- Non-slip mat in shower/bath
- Grab rails beside toilet and in shower
- Shower chair or stool if needed
- Raised toilet seat if difficulty sitting/standing
General
- Remove loose rugs or secure with non-slip backing
- Ensure adequate lighting, especially hallways and stairs
- Clear pathways of cords, clutter, and furniture
- Night lights between bedroom and bathroom
- Handrails on both sides of stairs
Exercises That Reduce Falls Risk
Evidence shows that regular balance and strength exercises can reduce falls by up to 40%. Effective programs include:
- Tai Chi — Proven to improve balance and reduce falls risk by 20–40%
- Otago Exercise Programme — A home-based strength and balance program prescribed by physiotherapists
- Stepping On — A community-based falls prevention program available in many areas
- Daily walking — Even 30 minutes of walking improves strength and balance
Medication Review
Ask your GP or pharmacist for a medication review if you're taking four or more medications. Many common medications increase falls risk, including sleeping tablets, blood pressure medications, and antidepressants. A review can identify whether doses can be reduced or alternatives found.
How CHNSS Can Help
CHNSS provides comprehensive falls risk assessment and prevention planning:
- Home safety assessment — A registered nurse visits your home to identify hazards and recommend modifications
- Falls risk assessment — Clinical assessment of your individual risk factors
- Coordination with GP and allied health — Referrals to physiotherapy, podiatry, and optometry as needed
- Equipment recommendations — Advice on assistive devices and home modifications available through aged care funding
Trusted Australian Resources
CHNSS is independent of these organisations. We link to them as trusted Australian resources to support your healthcare journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Muscle weakness and poor balance are the most common contributing factors, often combined with environmental hazards like loose rugs, poor lighting, and cluttered pathways.
Yes. Evidence shows that regular balance and strength exercises (such as Tai Chi or the Otago Exercise Programme) can reduce falls by 20–40%.
Yes. CHNSS provides comprehensive falls risk assessments including home safety evaluation, medication review, and coordination with physiotherapy and other allied health services.
Healthcare Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for advice specific to your situation. CHNSS provides independent nursing consultation and healthcare navigation — not medical diagnosis or treatment.
