How to Prevent Falls at Home: A Guide for Older Australians & Their Families

Why falls prevention matters

Let’s be honest – nobody likes to think about falling. It’s one of those topics that can feel a little confronting, especially for older adults who value their independence. But talking about fall prevention doesn’t mean giving up your freedom. In fact, it’s one of the most empowering things you can do to stay safe, confident, and living life on your own terms.

Falls are the number one cause of injury-related hospitalisations for older Australians. They can lead to fractures, reduced mobility, and loss of confidence –  all of which can significantly affect quality of life. The great news? With the right knowledge and small changes around the home, falls are largely preventable.

Watch: our falls prevention video series

We’ve put together two short, practical videos to help you understand falls prevention in real, everyday terms. Have a watch – they’re short, friendly, and packed with useful tips you can use straight away.

Video 1: Understanding fall risks in the home

A quick walkthrough of the most common hazards around the house — and how to address them simply and affordably. An approved in-home care provider can help spot potential hazards around the house and suggest simple changes to make your home safer and easier to move around in.

Video 2: Exercises and daily habits to reduce fall risk

Simple strength and balance exercises you can do at home, tailored for older adults, to help build confidence and stability. Working with allied health professionals, like a physiotherapist, can help you build strength, improve balance, and stay healthy, confident, and independent at home.

The most common causes of falls in older adults

Understanding what puts someone at risk is the first step to reducing that risk. Falls rarely happen for just one reason – they’re usually a combination of factors, including:

• Muscle weakness and balance problems — Loss of muscle strength and coordination as we age increases the risk of tripping or losing balance.
• Medication side effects — Some medications can cause dizziness, low blood pressure, or drowsiness that increases fall risk. Always talk to your GP if you notice these effects.
• Vision changes — Reduced depth perception and contrast sensitivity can make it harder to spot hazards like step edges or uneven surfaces.
• Home hazards — Loose rugs, poor lighting, slippery floors, and cluttered walkways are among the most common causes of falls at home.
• Fear of falling — Ironically, worrying about a fall can lead to less physical activity, which then increases fall risk over time.
• Footwear — Worn-down soles, slippers without grip, or ill-fitting shoes can all contribute to trips and slips.

Practical falls prevention tips for home safety

The good news is that many of these risks can be reduced with some straightforward changes. Here’s where to start:

Around the house

• Remove loose rugs or use non-slip backing to secure them
• Keep walkways clear of cords, bags, and clutter
• Ensure all areas of the home – especially stairs – are well-lit
• Install grab rails in the bathroom near the toilet and shower
• Use a non-slip bath mat both inside and outside the shower or bath
• Consider a shower chair or handheld showerhead for added stability

For your health and movement

• Talk to your GP about a falls risk assessment – it’s simple and free
• Ask your pharmacist to review your medications for any fall-related side effects
• Get your eyesight checked regularly, especially if it’s been a while
• Wear supportive, well-fitting footwear with a firm sole – even inside the house
• Stay hydrated and eat well – low blood pressure from dehydration is a common and overlooked fall risk

Strength and balance exercises

Staying active is one of the most powerful things you can do to prevent falls. Exercises that focus on leg strength, core stability, and balance – like tai chi, yoga, or even simple seated exercises – can make a real difference over time. Watch our video above for specific exercises to try at home or ask your GP for a referral to a physiotherapist.

How home care can help with falls prevention

For many older adults, having regular support at home can make a real difference to both safety and overall wellbeing. A trusted in-home care provider like Home Care Assistance can offer practical support, peace of mind, and help you stay independent for longer by assisting with everyday tasks and reducing the risk of falls.

• Home safety checks — identifying and addressing hazards throughout the home
• Assistance with daily activities — like showering, dressing, and moving around safely
• Accompanying clients to medical appointments — including vision checks, GP visits, and physio
• Encouragement and gentle exercise support — helping clients stick to recommended balance exercises
• Coordination of allied health services — connecting clients with physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and more

At Home Care Assistance, our approach to care is built on respect, warmth, and real partnership with our clients and their families. We know how important it is to maintain independence – and we’re here to support that, not replace it.

Our Care Partners are here to help you make the most of your government funding, whether that means accessing allied health services, assistive technology, or home modifications that can make everyday life safer and more comfortable.

When to seek extra support

It’s worth having an honest conversation with your GP or an approved home care provider if you or your loved one:

• Has already had one or more falls in the past 12 months
• Feels unsteady or lacks confidence when walking
• Is on multiple medications
• Has been less active due to fear of falling
• Is managing a condition like Parkinson’s, arthritis, or low vision

The earlier you act, the better – falls prevention is always easier than recovery from a fall.

Ready to take the next step in falls prevention?

Our care team at Home Care Assisntance is here tohelp you. Whether you need a home sadety assesment, personalised in home care, or jsut want to have a chat about your options – we’d love to hear from you