Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults, often resulting in emergency room visits and even hospitalization. Understanding where these falls most commonly occur can help inform effective prevention strategies.

Where Do Most Falls Happen?

A recent study analysing fall-related emergency department visits among adults aged 65 and older found that:

• Indoor Falls are More Common: 71.6% of fall-related injuries happened indoors, while 28.4% occurred outside.
• Falls at Home Dominate: 79.2% of falls occurred at home, making it the most hazardous location for older adults.
• Key Risk Areas in the Home: The most common fall locations inside the home were:
  • Bedroom (25%) – The most frequent location for falls, particularly among those aged 85 and older.
  • Stairs (22.9%) – A major hazard, especially for adults aged 65 to 74.
  • Bathroom (22.7%) – Slippery surfaces increase fall risks.

How Can We Prevent Falls?

The good news is that falls are preventable! Here are some evidence-based strategies to reduce fall risk at home:

1. Modify the Home Environment

• Install grab bars in bathrooms.
• Ensure proper lighting, especially on stairs and hallways.
• Remove trip hazards like loose rugs or clutter.
• Add handrails on both sides of staircases.

2. Improve Strength and Balance

3. Manage Health and Medications

If you or a loved one is at risk of falling, consider a home safety assessment with a physiotherapist or occupational therapist. Small changes can make a big difference in preventing falls and maintaining independence.

Moreland, B. L., Kakara, R., Haddad, Y. K., Shakya, I., & Bergen, G. (2021). A descriptive analysis of location of older adult falls that resulted in emergency department visits in the United States, 2015. American journal of lifestyle medicine, 15(6), 590-597.