Focus on Preventing Falls
Falls threaten the health and independence of many older adults, but falls can be prevented. During Falls Prevention Awareness Week, learn strategies that can help older adults maintain their health and independence by reducing their risk of falling.
Improving Quality of Life by Reducing Fall Risks
Every year, one in three adults age 65 and older falls. Twenty to 30% of those who fall suffer moderate to severe injuries that can threaten their ability to live healthy, independent lives. The following tips can help keep you from falling:
Exercise Regularly
Exercise that strengthens legs and improves balance can reduce your risk of falling. Check with a doctor to see what type of exercise is best for you.
Have a Medication Check-Up
Have a health care provider review all of your medications including over-the-counter drugs like supplements and cold medicines. Drug interactions or side effects like drowsiness or dizziness can cause you to fall.
Have Your Vision Checked
Schedule a vision check with an eye doctor. Poor vision or eyesight limited by cataracts or glaucoma can increase your chances of falling.
Make Your Home Safer
Make your home safer by removing trip hazards, adding brighter lights, putting non-stick mats on shower and bathtub floors, installing grab bars next to and inside your shower or tub, and adding railings on both sides of your stairs (indoor and outdoor).
More Information
CDC offers a variety of materials and resources for all audiences about older adult falls and what you can do to prevent them.
Brochures and Posters (in English, Spanish, and Chinese) - Fact Sheets:
- Preventing Falls: What Works― A CDC Compendium of Effective Community-based Interventions from Around the World
- Preventing Falls: How to Develop Community-based Fall Prevention Programs for Older Adults
- Podcasts on Older Adult Falls Prevention
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