Fall Prevention: Why We Need to Talk About It Every Year

As autumn approaches, it’s the perfect time to remind families and caregivers about the critical importance of preventing falls among older adults. Year after year, more seniors are affected by falls—and the consequences can be life-altering.

Download the FREE FALL PREVENTION CONVERSATION GUIDE

Alarming Statistics

Why do we need so many reminders? The numbers tell the story.

• According to the CDC, one in four adults aged 65+ falls yearly, yet less than half share this with their doctor.
• In 2021 alone, falls accounted for 38,000 deaths and triggered 3 million emergency department visits among older adults. By 2030, total medical costs tied to older adult falls are expected to exceed $101 billion. (National Council on Aging)
• From 1999 to 2012, lifetime medical costs jumped from $35 billion to over $101 billion, with projections showing 100,000 annual deaths caused by fatal falls by 2030. (CDC)
• Fall-related death rates have increased over 70% for those aged 65–84 between 2003 and 2023, according to research from the CDC.

Fall-Related Injuries and Their Impact

Falls may not seem like a big deal, but when older adults are involved, the impacts can be devastating.

• 7% of adults 65+ reported a fall in 2014, resulting in an estimated 29 million incidents. CDC
• Of these, 2.8 million visits to the emergency department occurred, with 800,000 hospitalizations. MarketWatch
• Falls are the main cause of traumatic brain injuries, hip fractures, and often drive transitions from independent living to long-term care. CDC

Hearing Loss: A Hidden Risk

Believe it or not, hearing loss can cause falls. Older adults with hearing impairment are 2.4 times more likely to experience a fall than peers with normal hearing. (Nature) Emerging research indicates that consistent use of hearing aids may cut fall risk nearly in half, though results vary. (PubMed)

Quality-of-Life Impacts: More Than Just Physical

Fear of falling can begin a harmful cycle: avoidance of activities leads to physical decline, social isolation, depression, and loss of independence. A fall often marks the start of a serious long-term care journey, such as a hip fracture leading to assisted living or nursing home placement—something we’ve seen frequently at Lifescape.

Risk Factors for Falls

Risk factors fall into two categories: personal (intrinsic) risks, and environmental (extrinsic) risks. Personal risks include:

• Reduced strength, balance, and mobility
• Medication side effects
• Impaired vision and hearing
• Low blood sugar, as well as poor nutrition or dehydration

Environmental risks include bathrooms and staircases, and hazards such as poor lighting, slippery or uneven floors, and clutter.

What You Can Do to Reduce Fall Risk

Daily habits and health checks are vital. It’s important to stay active. Walk, try Tai Chi, or exercise regularly to maintain strength and balance.

Schedule annual vision and hearing assessments. Always use assistive devices like glasses, hearing aids, canes, or walkers.

Review medications with a healthcare professional to watch for dizziness or side effects.

Make simple adjustments in the home. If you are looking after an elderly loved one, either in your own home or somewhere else, here are some safe, simple changes you can make to reduce the risk of falls.

1. Use rubber mats in tubs and showers.
2. Install grab bars near toilets and baths.
3. Use raised toilet or bath seats if needed.
4. Keep kitchen items within reach.
5. Remove throw rugs.
6. Clear walkways of clutter.
7. Secure loose electrical cords.
8. Clean up spills promptly.
9. Ensure stairs are obstacle-free.
10. Add or fix handrails.
11. Improve lighting, especially with nightlights.
12. Illuminate exterior entrances.
13. Store regularly used items accessibly.
14. Wear non-slip footwear.
15. Ask for help retrieving items that require stepping up (avoid unstable platforms).

When outdoors:

• Avoid rushing—take your time.
• Wear appropriate footwear for weather (e.g., non-slip).
• In icy or snowy conditions, consider whether venturing out is necessary.
• Use mobility aids and avoid carrying too many items at once.

Helpful Resources

The National Council on Aging’s Falls Prevention Conversation Guide is an excellent tool for starting discussions with loved ones, healthcare professionals, or family about fall risk—especially if there’s a history of falls or mobility concerns. It contains proactive guidance and support to create a personalized fall prevention action plan.

Fall prevention starts with awareness—and action. As a caregiver, loved one, or older adult, you have the power to make safe changes and help others stay independent and mobile. Take steps today to help reduce fall risk and keep yourself or your loved ones standing tall.

Do you have questions about an elderly loved one’s care? Lifescape Elder Care Law and Estate Planning is here for you. Call 816.291.4143 to schedule your confidential family consultation.

About the Author

Charley Lewis is the Life Care Coordinator at Lifescape Elder Care Law & Estate Planning. She has nearly five decades of experience helping older adults and their families navigate the long-term care journey. She is a Certified Death Doula and a Certified Life Coach.