Falls in older adults: how to prevent them

How big the problem is

According to the WHO, about 842,000 people died from falls worldwide in 2023, and 71% were aged 60 or over. Falls are the second leading cause of unintentional injury deaths, after road injuries.

Even when they are not fatal, falls cause fractures, head injuries, loss of independence and the need for long-term care.

What raises the risk

• Problems with balance, strength or walking
• Problems with eyesight or memory
• Medicines or conditions that cause dizziness or low blood pressure
• Unsafe stairs and poor lighting at home

Exercise is the strongest tool

The WHO cites a review in which exercise reduced falls by about 23%. For older people living at home, it recommends exercise that challenges balance and builds functional strength. Tai Chi is another good option.

World Physiotherapy dedicated World Physiotherapy Day 2025 to healthy ageing and preventing frailty and falls. Examples of exercises it suggests:

• Standing up from a chair without using your hands
• Squats
• Reaching in different directions while standing
• Stepping forwards, backwards and sideways
• Walking at different speeds
• Practising getting up from the floor

Exercises should be challenging but safe, and get harder step by step.

Safety at home

The WHO reports that checking the home for hazards cut falls by 38% in older people at higher risk. Simple changes help: grab bars in the bathroom, securing rugs, better lighting and suitable shoes.

If you have fallen more than twice in the past year, were injured in a fall or cannot get up on your own, ask for an assessment. The WHO also suggests asking your doctor to review your medicines.