Fall Prevention Tips for Older Australians

Live Easy Team
2 days ago
3 min read

Falls are one of the biggest risks for older Australians, and they can happen in an instant. A small trip over a loose rug, a slip in the bathroom or even a momentary loss of balance while getting up from a chair can lead to serious injuries and potentially long hospital stays. But here’s the good news: most falls can be prevented with a few simple changes to your home environment, daily habits and health checks.

At Live Easy, our goal is to help you maintain your confidence, mobility and independence. Read on for expert-backed fall prevention strategies that you can start implementing today.

Why Fall Prevention Matters

High prevalence: In Australia, one in four people aged 65+ experiences a fall each year.
Serious consequences: Falls can result in fractures, head injuries and long-term loss of mobility.
Emotional impact: After a fall, many older adults develop a fear of falling again, which can limit social activities and reduce quality of life.

Preventing falls isn’t just about avoiding injury, it’s about preserving your ability to live well at home.

Top Tips for Preventing Falls

1. Make Your Home Fall-Proof

Transform your home into a safer environment by:

Removing loose rugs or anchoring them with non-slip backing.
Clearing walkways of clutter, electrical cords and unnecessary furniture.
Improving lighting in hallways, staircases and bathrooms—consider motion-sensor night lights.
Installing grab rails beside toilets, in showers and near any steps.
Using non-slip mats in the bathroom, kitchen and entryways.

2. Wear the Right Footwear

Comfortable shoes are not always safe shoes.

Choose:

Sturdy, well-fitting footwear with a low heel and non-slip sole.
Avoid loose slippers or socks on smooth floors.

3. Keep Moving with Strength & Balance Exercises

Regular activity helps maintain muscle tone and coordination:

Balance exercises: Practice heel-to-toe walking and standing on one foot, supported as needed.
Walking: A daily stroll strengthens leg muscles and improves gait.
Tai Chi: Research shows it enhances balance and reduces fall risk.
Strength training: Light resistance exercises maintain muscle mass around key joints.

Our Live Easy Buddies can organise your appointments with physiotherapists and design a personalised exercise program to suit your fitness level.

4. Check Your Vision and Hearing

Sensory changes can increase fall risk:

Eye exams: Book annual check-ups and update your prescription glasses.
Hearing tests: Even mild hearing loss can affect your sense of balance—get tested if you notice changes.

5. Review Your Medications

Certain prescriptions may cause dizziness or drowsiness:

Discuss side effects with your GP or pharmacist.
Adjust doses or timings where possible, to minimise impact on your balance.

6. Use Assistive Devices When Needed

Don’t hesitate to leverage tools that support your mobility:

Walking aids (sticks or walkers) for extra stability.
Shower chairs or raised toilet seats to reduce slip risk.
Personal alarm systems or smart watches with fall-detection features for peace of mind.

What to Do If You Have a Fall

Even with precautions, falls can still occur. If you do fall:

Stay calm: Take a moment to breathe and assess for pain or injuries.
Call for help: Use your phone, emergency button or shout for assistance if you’re alone.
Get up safely: If uninjured, roll onto your side, move to hands and knees, then use a sturdy chair to stand.
Seek medical advice: Visit your doctor—even if you feel fine—to rule out hidden injuries.

Can Your Home Care Package Help?

Did you know you can use your Home Care Package to fund many of these fall-prevention measures? From occupational therapy assessments and installation of grab rails to balance classes and mobility aids, a Home Care Package can be tailored to reduce your falls risk.

At Live Easy Home Care by Scalabrini, we’ll work with you to:

Evaluate your home for hazards.
Coordinate allied health services (physio, OT, podiatry).
Arrange and oversee assistive technology and home modifications.

Take the First Step Toward a Safer Home

Preventing falls empowers you to stay active, confident and independent in your own home. Whether you need a home safety assessment, strength and balance coaching, or assistance with accessing a Home Care Package, Live Easy is here to help.

Contact us today on 02 8729 2865 or email buddies@liveeasy.com.au to get in touch with us. Let’s work together to keep you moving safely and living life to the fullest because you deserve to enjoy and have some fun, after all!