April Falls Month is a timely reminder that while falls may seem like part of growing older, they are not inevitable. Each year, thousands of older Australians are hospitalised due to falls, often resulting in life-changing injuries such as hip fractures or head trauma.

But here’s the good news: most falls can be prevented. This April, let’s take practical steps to reduce risks and raise awareness, so we can help our loved ones stay active, independent, and safe.

Why Falls Matter

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospital admissions in people aged 65 and over. In 2021–22, there were over 132,000 hospitalisations due to falls in this age group — that’s around 360 every single day1.

The impact can be severe:

• Around 40% of injury-related deaths in older Australians are due to falls1.
• A fall can lead to long hospital stays, loss of independence, and early entry into residential aged care2.
• Beyond physical injury, falls often lead to psychological effects such as fear of falling again, which can reduce confidence and activity levels, further increasing fall risk.

Top Tips to Prevent Falls

1. Stay Physically Active

Maintaining strength and balance is key. Exercises that focus on leg strength, coordination and balance are particularly beneficial. Consider:

• Tai chi, Pilates, or strength and balance programs
• Walking groups or low-impact gym classes
• In-home exercise routines if mobility is limited

Did you know? Regular physical activity reduces fall risk by up to 23%3.

💡 Ask your GP about referral to an Exercise Physiologist under a Chronic Disease Management Plan.

2. Check and Modify the Home Environment

Most falls occur in and around the home. The following changes can significantly reduce risk:

• Remove or secure loose rugs and mats
• Ensure adequate lighting, especially in hallways and stairways
• Install grab rails in bathrooms and near stairs
• Use non-slip mats in the bathroom and kitchen
• Keep frequently used items within easy reach to avoid climbing or bending

A home safety assessment by an occupational therapist can help identify and address hazards.

3. Have Regular Health Check-Ups

Several health issues can affect balance and coordination, including poor vision, foot problems, low blood pressure, and chronic conditions like arthritis or Parkinson’s.

Key check-ups:

• Vision tests every 1–2 years
• Hearing tests
• Foot health checks and proper footwear
• Bone health assessments to identify osteoporosis risk

4. Review Your Medications

Some medications — especially sedatives, antihypertensives, and antidepressants — can cause side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness or blurred vision.

Have your medications reviewed regularly by your GP or pharmacist, especially if you’re taking multiple medications (polypharmacy).

🩺 Pro tip: Use the Home Medicines Review (HMR) service — it’s free under the Medicare Benefits Scheme and can be organised by your GP.

5. Use Assistive Devices and Support Aids

• Use walking aids correctly — and make sure they are in good condition
• Consider hip protectors for those at high risk
• Use fall detection alarms or personal emergency systems, especially if living alone

A mobility assessment by a physiotherapist can guide the right equipment choices.

Fall Prevention Is a Community Effort

While health professionals play a crucial role, everyone can contribute to fall prevention:

• Family members can help declutter and ensure safe footwear
• Neighbours can check in regularly
• Community groups can offer exercise classes or transport to appointments
• Councils can improve outdoor lighting and maintain footpaths

Remember:

• Falls are not a normal part of ageing
• Prevention is possible, often with low-cost or no-cost changes
• Confidence can be rebuilt after a fall with the right support

Let’s Look After Each Other

A fall can change a life in seconds. But together, we can change the story. By staying active, checking our environment, and looking out for our older loved ones, we can make falls less frequent — and far less frightening.

How Good Hope Healthcare Can Help

At Good Hope Healthcare, we are committed to supporting aged care facilities and community care services in improving the health and wellbeing of older Australians.

We offer specialised fall prevention programs, staff training, and risk assessments tailored for aged care residents. Our approach includes:

• Evidence-based exercise and mobility plans
• Environmental audits and recommendations
• Ongoing staff education and support in fall risk reduction
• Integration with physiotherapy and allied health services

Partnering with us means your organisation is investing in proactive care and a safer environment for residents and clients.

Visit www.goodhopehealthcare.com.au to learn more about our aged care programs and how we can assist with fall prevention strategies.

 

📚 References

1. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. (2023). Injury in Australia: Falls. Retrieved from: https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/injury/falls
2. NSW Health. (2023). Falls Prevention – Stay On Your Feet®. Retrieved from: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/falls
   
3. Gillespie, L. D., et al. (2012). Interventions for preventing falls in older people living in the community. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (9).