Take Steps to Prevent Falls

A fall can affect your health, independence, and ability to participate fully in everyday life. Anyone can experience a fall, but older adults and people with disabilities are at higher risk.

The impact goes far beyond the fall itself. A fall can cause injury, limit mobility, and make it harder to stay independent, affecting families and caregivers, too. Over 14 million older adults, or 1 in 4, report falling each year, and more than 3.85 million older adults were treated in emergency rooms in 2023. Nonfatal falls cost the U.S. healthcare system about $80 billion in 2020, about two-thirds of it paid by Medicare. Falls among older adults also led to more than 43,000 deaths in 2024.

But many falls can be prevented.

Know your risk.

Prevention starts with learning what increases your risk of falls. Health conditions, medications, vision problems, dehydration, and hazards in and around the home can all increase your risk.

Some risks are easy to spot, such as a loose rug or poor lighting. Others may be less obvious. Some medications can cause drowsiness, changes in vision can make it harder to see obstacles, and not drinking enough fluids can cause weakness or dizziness.

Understanding your risks can help you decide where to start. Talk with your healthcare provider or pharmacist about your risk, and look around your home for changes that could make it safer and more accessible.

Find what works for you.

We know there are effective ways to prevent falls. Evidence-based programs can reduce the risk of falling and help people build strength, improve balance, and feel more confident. ACL data shows participants in these programs report fewer falls and improved strength and steadiness.

Prevention isn't one-size-fits-all. You might take a class to build strength and balance, ask about medication side effects, get your vision checked, or focus on drinking enough fluids. You could also make simple changes at home, like using a nonslip bathmat or improving lighting around stairs.

Take action.

You don't have to do everything at once, but you must start to take preventive action so that you do not become one of the statistics. No one plans to fall, falls happen, so be on the offense and take preventive actions.

Falls Prevention Awareness Month reminds us that many falls can be prevented and that we all have a part to play. But prevention is not just for September. Small steps throughout the year reduce risk and help people stay healthy, safe, and independent.

Aging and disability services, health professionals, community organizations, individuals, families, and caregivers all have a role. Together, we can identify risks, find ways to reduce them, and connect with programs and services that can help.

Take a step to prevent falls - for yourself, someone you support, or the people you serve. Explore tips, resources, and materials at acl.gov/falls-prevention-month. To find falls prevention programs and other services near you, contact the Eldercare Locator.