19 November 2025

Preventing falls keeps you mobile

Did you know that falls are the leading cause of injury and having to go to hospital or having a temporary or permanent disability among Australians aged 65 and over?

More than one in three Australians aged 65 and over experience at least one fall each year. Falls often result in serious injuries such as fractures or broken bones, with two-thirds of people having to go to hospital after a fall are from a fall in the home.

The good news is that falls we can do things to prevent falls and that loss of balance and mobility due to ageing is not inevitable.

One of the key things research has found is that exercise is key to preventing falls. But that does not mean heading to the gym and immediately trying to lift heavy weights or taking up jogging.

The best way to prevent falls is by using a few different strategies that are proven to work. It’s not just about being careful, it’s about using approaches that help keep you mobile.

Prevention Strategies

• Strength and balance training – regular, tailored exercises can reduce falls by improving confidence, coordination, and muscle strength.
• Home safety check - addressing hazards such as poor lighting by using sensor lights, loose rugs, room layout, unsafe bathrooms can significantly lower risks.
• Health checks – regular eye checks, continence check, review of medications especially if you take lot of different medications, if you have recently had falls to ensure that hidden risks can be identified early.
• Education and confidence building – Understanding your risk factors and learning safe movement approaches will help you to remain active and independent.

Key Takeaways

• Falls are preventable, not inevitable. Through targeted approaches, older Australians can maintain mobility, confidence, and independence.
• Research evidence is clear; exercise and tailored approaches can reduce the risk of falls.
• Financial and personal costs associated with loss of mobility are high. Prevention leads to less hospitalisation and fewer injuries, resulting in a better quality of life.

Staying motivated, building healthy habits, and knowing how to reduce risks all help keep you safe – and mobile.

If you’ve had a fall, or you're worried about falling, we’re here to help. Our allied health specialists can work with you to find the right support. Just reach out to us here to find out more.