Falls, Fall Risks, and Injury Risk — What You Need to Know

Why falls deserve attention

Falls are common — especially with increasing age — but they are not an inevitable part of getting older. A fall can affect confidence, independence, mobility, and health. Understanding why falls happen and how to prevent them helps protect quality of life and supports safer ageing.

What increases the risk of falling

Falls usually occur due to a combination of factors rather than one simple cause. Common contributors include reduced muscle strength, balance problems, dizziness, vision changes, foot or joint pain, poorly fitting footwear, low blood pressure episodes, chronic illness, medication side effects, alcohol use, and environmental hazards at home or outdoors.

Why some falls cause more serious injury

The risk of injury depends on many factors including bone strength, speed of the fall, impact surface, and protective reactions. Conditions such as osteoporosis increase the chance of fractures, particularly in the hip, spine, or wrist. Frailty, poor nutrition, and reduced muscle mass can also increase vulnerability.

When to speak with your GP

Seek medical review after a fall, especially if you experience pain, head injury, loss of consciousness, confusion, weakness, or new difficulty walking. Even if you “feel okay,” repeated falls or near-misses deserve attention. Your GP can assess medical causes, review medications, arrange tests, and coordinate physiotherapy, exercise programs, or specialist care when needed.

Preventing falls — practical steps

Prevention often includes strength and balance exercises, vision and hearing checks, reviewing medications, managing blood pressure, treating underlying conditions, and addressing home safety — such as better lighting, removing trip hazards, grab rails in bathrooms, and safer footwear. Small, practical changes can reduce risk meaningfully.

Confidence and emotional wellbeing

After a fall, many people feel anxious, fearful, or reluctant to stay active — but avoiding movement can weaken muscles further. Support, reassurance, and structured exercise programs help regain confidence and independence.

Falls prevention is not about restricting life — it is about staying active, independent, and safe for longer.

This article provides general health information only and does not replace medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised care.