Medically reviewed by James Feeney, MD

A fall can happen at any moment. One missed step, one slippery rug and life can change fast. For older adults, falls are common, but many are preventable with a few simple changes.

More than 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year, and fewer than half tell their doctor about it afterward. Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries in this age group, sending millions of older adults to the emergency room every year.

Why falls become more common with age

As we get older, several things can affect balance and stability:

• Muscles get weaker, especially in the legs
• Vision changes make it harder to spot hazards
• Some medications cause dizziness or drowsiness
• Chronic conditions like arthritis or diabetes can affect balance and feeling in the feet
• Inner ear changes can throw off balance
• Reflexes slow down, making it harder to catch yourself

Any one of these can raise your risk. Together, they can make a fall much more likely.

Simple steps that lower your risk

Falls often lead to serious harm. Hip fractures, head injuries and long hospital stays are common results, and one fall often raises the risk of another. That is why prevention matters so much, and a few consistent habits can make a real difference.

• Stay active: Exercises that build leg strength and improve balance, like walking, water aerobics or tai chi, can lower your risk of falling.
• Get your vision checked yearly: Poor eyesight is one of the most common contributors to falls in older adults.
• Review your medications: Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether any of your medications, or combinations of them, could be affecting your balance or causing drowsiness.
• Wear supportive shoes: Skip slippers and shoes with slick soles. Look for shoes with good grip and low, sturdy heels.
• Get enough calcium and vitamins: Strong bones can help prevent a break if a fall happens.
• Use assistive devices when needed: Canes and walkers are simple tools that help you stay steady and confident on your feet.

Making your home safer

Most falls happen at home, in places we think are familiar and safe.

• Remove loose rugs or secure them with non-slip backing
• Add grab bars in the bathroom, near the toilet and in the shower
• Improve lighting, especially on stairs and in hallways
• Keep walkways clear of cords, clutter and furniture
• Install handrails on both sides of the stairs

A few changes in your home can prevent a fall before it ever happens.

Talk to your care team

Your doctor can assess your personal risk factors and recommend a plan that fits your needs. Many falls happen because small warning signs, like a stumble or a moment of dizziness, go unreported. Sharing these details with your doctor gives them the chance to catch a problem before it becomes bigger.

Ready to take steps toward staying safe and independent? Find a WMCHealth primary care doctor to talk through your personal risk.