Fall Risks in Older Adults: How to Prevent Falls and Support Loved Ones

Why Are Falls So Common in Older Adults?

As we age, several factors increase the risk of falling, including:

• Muscle weakness and balance issues
• Vision changes
• Medication side effects
• Chronic conditions like arthritis, diabetes, or Parkinson’s
• Hazards in the home (throw rugs, stairs, poor lighting)

A fall isn’t just a physical event; it can also take an emotional toll, leading to fear of falling, reduced mobility, and social isolation.

Warning Signs That a Fall Risk May Be Rising

Some signs that your loved one may be at higher risk for a fall include:

• Holding onto furniture while walking
• Trouble standing up from a seated position
• Shuffling instead of taking full steps
• Recent falls or “close calls”
• Dizziness or frequent loss of balance
• Hesitation to leave home or walk outdoors

If you’re noticing these signs, it’s time to take action.

How to Prevent Falls at Home

You don’t have to wait for a fall to happen. Simple changes can help keep your loved one safer and more confident.

Home Safety Tips:

• Remove throw rugs and clutter from walkways
• Install grab bars in bathrooms and near stairs
• Improve lighting in hallways and bedrooms
• Use non-slip mats in the shower or tub
• Ensure shoes fit well and offer good traction

Health Support Tips:

• Encourage regular exercise to strengthen muscles and improve balance
• Schedule vision and hearing checks
• Review your medications with a healthcare provider; some medicines can cause dizziness.
• Make sure assistive devices (like canes or walkers) are properly fitted

What to Do If a Fall Happens

Even with prevention, falls can still occur. If your loved one has had a fall:

1. Seek medical care, even if injuries seem minor. Hip fractures and head injuries can be serious even when symptoms aren’t immediately obvious.
2. Schedule a follow-up with their primary care provider to discuss possible causes and prevention strategies.
3. Ask about a referral to outpatient rehab if your loved one can remain at home but needs help rebuilding strength and confidence
4. Consider inpatient rehab if mobility or strength has been affected to the point that your loved one cannot remain at home. Specialized care can help restore independence.

Inpatient Rehab: A Partner in Recovery

If your loved one needs more support after a fall or surgery (like a hip replacement) than can be provided at home or in an outpatient rehab center, inpatient rehabilitation may be an option. For patients who meet admission criteria, inpatient rehab provides around-the-clock care, therapy, and monitoring.

It can help with:

• Regaining strength and stability
• Practicing daily activities safely
• Building confidence and preventing future falls
• Transitioning home with a personalized care plan

Our team at St. Mary’s is here to walk with you every step of the way. We provide 24/7 care in our Inpatient Rehabilitation Center at St. Mary’s Hospital in Athens and also offer physical and occupational therapy through St. Mary’s Home Health Care Services, St. Mary’s Outpatient Rehabilitation Center, and the Rehabilitation Departments at our hospitals in Greensboro and Lavonia.

Talk With a Provider About Fall Prevention Today

The best fall prevention plan is a proactive one. Whether you’re concerned about your own risk or helping a parent or grandparent, start the conversation with a provider who understands your concerns.

Here are our trusted primary care locations:

• Athens Internal Medicine Associates – Athens
• Community Internal Medicine of Athens – Athens
• Georgia Family Medicine – Watkinsville
• Good Samaritan Primary Care – Greater Greene County area
• Sacred Heart Primary Care – Greater Franklin County area
• St. Mary's Family Medicine – Bogart
• St. Mary’s Internal Medicine Associates – Watkinsville/Oconee
• St. Mary’s Internal Medicine Associates on Chase – North Athens/Jackson/Madison
• St. Mary's Primary Care – Athens