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Falls Prevention & Management Resource Guide

Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries in persons older than 65 years:

Fall injuries result in 2.8 million emergency department visits annually
25% of falls cause serious injuries, such as fractures or traumatic brain injury
The risk of falls and resulting serious injury increases with age. A history of falls is associated with a two- to sixfold increased risk of a future fall

The following online resources provide access to reliable and up-to-date information about falls and related injuries in seniors:

Preventing Falls

Prevent Falls and Fractures: For older people, a break can be the start of more serious problems, such as a trip to the hospital, injury, disability, or even death. Information from the National Institute on Aging.

Falls Prevention Unique to Older Adults: Provides an overview of falls and other medical conditions, falls and medications, and additional health problems related to falls. Information from HealthinAging.org

How To Prevent Falls: Poor hearing, certain medications, and the wrong shoes can hike your risk of taking a tumble. Information from Consumer Reports.

Making Your Home Safe

Fall-Proofing Your Home: Six out of every 10 falls happen at home. There are many changes you can make to your home that will help you avoid falls and ensure your safety. Information from the National Institute on Aging.

Check for Safety: A Home Fall Prevention Checklist for Older Adults: Use this checklist to find and fix fall hazards in your home. A resource from the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control

Medical Alert Systems

The Best Medical Alert Systems: This guide will help you learn about medical alert companies and devices so you can make an informed decision and find a medical alert system that is the best fit for yourself or a loved one.

Balance Problems

Older Adults and Balance Problems: Many older adults experience problems with balance and dizziness. Information from the National Institute on Aging.

Footwear and Balance Problems: Proper footwear can help improve balance, especially in older people who may struggle with mobility and balance issues. Information from the Vestibular Disorders Association.

Postural Hypotension - What it is & How to Manage it: When your blood pressure drops, less blood can go to your organs and muscles. This can make you more likely to fall. Information from the CDC.

Additional Resources

Check Your Risk for Falling: Answer a few yes-or-no questions to determine if you are at risk for a fall.

What Should I Do If I Fall?: Read about how to get up from a fall and watch a video demonstrating various methods of getting up.

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