Falls are the most common accidents that older people have. Although falls aren’t a normal part of the aging process, as people age they may have medical conditions or be on medicines that may increase their risk of having a fall.

Falls can cause injuries affecting lifestyle and independence, but they can be prevented. To reduce your risk of having a fall, be aware of possible causes or risk factors and avoid or modify them if you can.

There are different things that can increase your chances of falling:

Medicines 

Some medicines can make you:

• Drowsy or tired.
• Dizzy, lightheaded or faint.
• Unsteady on your feet.
• Have blurred or double vision.
• Confused, not able to think clearly

The risk of you having a fall may be greater:

• When you start using a new medicine.
• If you take more than the prescribed dose of your medicine.
• If you take two (or more) medicines from the groups listed in the table below:
  

Medicines (both prescription and non-prescription) for treating many conditions may increase your risk of having a fall. Ask your doctor if the medicine(s) you’re taking could put you at risk of having a fall.

Medical Conditions

Falls may be a sign of an undiagnosed medical condition or disease. Always report your fall to your doctor promptly and ask them to check for injuries. 

Physical factors 

• Poor balance
• Poor vision
• Muscle weakness
• Joint stiffness
• Inactivity
• Dizziness
• Limited neck movements

Footwear that is unstable or provides poor support.

Environmental factors

Your home may also have possible hazards, for example:

• Loose mats
• Uneven paving or walkways
• Slippery surfaces e.g. bath/shower, wet floors
• No handrails on stairs

Poor lighting.

Time of day

More falls happen in the evening and at night, due to tiredness and decreased light. 

SELF CARE

Medicines

• Keep an ongoing record of all your medicines and medical conditions. This helps your doctor to choose medicines that won’t increase your risk of having a fall.
• Read the label on all medicines you take. Check with your pharmacist whenever your medicines have the following labels:
  

• If your medicine can put you at risk of falling, ask if there is an alternative.
• Ask your doctor for advice on how to lessen your medicine’s side effects.
• Talk to your doctor before mixing alcohol and your medicines.
• Start new medicines on weekends or when other people are around.
  

Don’t use other people’s medicine—it has been prescribed for them and could have a different effect on you, possibly causing you to fall.

Other factors

• A physiotherapist and occupational therapist can:
  • assess your muscle strength and balance skills
  • improve your flexibility
  • help you become more active
  • help you to make your home “fall-proof”.
• A podiatrist can advise you on footwear that provides good support and balance when walking.
• Take extra care when you get out of bed during the night or first thing in the morning. Sit on the edge of the bed for a few minutes before getting up