Preventing Falls

Learn 10 practical ways to prevent falls, make your home safer, stay active and independent, and know what to do if a fall happens.

What you need to know

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Falls are a leading cause of injury among older Canadians. The good news is that many falls can be prevented.

Learning how to prevent falls is one of the most important things you can do to stay healthy, active, and independent as you age. It can also help you support an older family member, friend, or someone you care for.

Falls are not inevitable. There are practical steps you can take to reduce your risk of falling and make injuries less likely if a fall occurs.

Preventing falls involves more than installing railings or grab bars. It works best when you consider different aspects of your health, daily habits, and environment.

Look after your health

Physical activity, good nutrition, adequate sleep, and regular healthcare can help maintain your strength and balance.

Make your surroundings safer

Removing hazards, improving lighting, and using appropriate equipment can make everyday activities safer.

Some health conditions and medications can also increase the risk of falling. For example, dizziness, changes in blood pressure, poor balance, or reduced mobility may make falls more likely.

Fall prevention is an ongoing process. You can reduce your risk by making small changes, learning new habits, and seeking support when needed.

The following sections explain practical ways to prevent falls, what to do if someone falls, and where to find additional information and support.

Steps you can take today

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There are many ways to lower your risk of falling. These 10 tips can help you build healthy habits, make your surroundings safer, and maintain your independence.

Stay socially connected

Spending time with others can help you stay active, engaged, and connected to your community.

Look for opportunities to visit friends and family, participate in community activities, or join a group that interests you.

Social activities that involve movement can also help you maintain your strength and confidence.

Be physically active

Regular physical activity helps maintain the strength, balance, flexibility, and coordination you need to move safely.

Choose activities that suit your abilities, such as walking, swimming, dancing, or exercises that improve strength and balance.

Start at a comfortable level. If you are unsure which activities are safe for you, speak with a healthcare provider or physiotherapist.

Get a good night's sleep

Poor sleep can affect your alertness, concentration, and balance.

Try to keep a regular sleep schedule and create a comfortable sleeping environment.

If you regularly have difficulty sleeping or feel unusually sleepy during the day, speak with your healthcare provider.

Take care of your vision and hearing

Changes in vision and hearing can make it harder to notice obstacles and stay aware of your surroundings.

Have your vision checked regularly.
Wear prescribed glasses or contact lenses.
Speak with a healthcare provider about changes in your hearing.
Use prescribed hearing aids when needed.

Get your medications checked

Some medications can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or changes in blood pressure, which may increase your risk of falling.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review all the medications you take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, and supplements.

Do not stop or change your medications without medical advice.

Make your home safer

Everyday hazards around the home can increase the risk of falling. Small changes can make a big difference.

Keep walkways and stairs free of clutter.
Remove or secure loose rugs and electrical cords.
Make sure rooms, hallways, and stairways are well lit.
Install secure handrails and bathroom grab bars where needed.
Wear supportive, well-fitting footwear with non-slip soles.

Use the right walking aid if you need one

A cane, walker, or other mobility aid can help you move more safely and maintain your independence.

A healthcare provider or physiotherapist can help you choose the right aid and show you how to use it correctly.

Once you have an appropriate walking aid, use it consistently.

Take a fall prevention class

Fall prevention programs can help improve your strength, balance, mobility, and confidence.

Ask your local community centre, seniors' centre, or healthcare provider about programs available in your area.

Look for programs that are appropriate for your abilities and offer guidance from qualified instructors.

Choose equipment that makes daily activities safer

Assistive equipment can help reduce the need to stretch, bend, or move in ways that may put you at risk.

Useful equipment may include:

Reaching tools for picking up objects
Shower chairs and grab bars
Non-slip footwear
Hip protectors for people at higher risk of injury

Ask a healthcare provider or occupational therapist which equipment would be most useful for your needs.

Eat well and stay hydrated

Good nutrition helps support muscle strength, energy, and overall health.

Eat a variety of nutritious foods, including sources of protein, and make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D to support bone health.

Drink enough fluids throughout the day. Dehydration can contribute to dizziness and weakness.

Limit alcohol, which can affect balance and coordination.

Start with one or two changes. You do not need to do everything at once. Small, consistent steps can help you feel safer and more confident in everyday life.

What to do if someone falls

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Knowing what to do after a fall can help prevent further injury and make a stressful situation easier to manage.

The right response depends on whether the person is injured, whether they can move safely, and whether they can get up on their own.

When to call 911

Call 911 immediately if the person is unconscious, has difficulty breathing, has severe bleeding, or shows signs of a stroke or other serious medical emergency.

Seek emergency help if you suspect a serious head, neck, back, or hip injury, or if the person has severe pain or cannot move safely.

Do not try to lift or move someone with a suspected serious injury unless they are in immediate danger. Follow the emergency dispatcher's instructions.

If you fall and can get up

Pause and assess. Take a moment to check for pain, dizziness, or injury before moving.
Move slowly. If you feel able and have no signs of serious injury, roll onto your side and gradually move onto your hands and knees.
Find sturdy support. Crawl toward a stable chair or another secure piece of furniture.
Rise gradually. Use the support to help yourself into a kneeling position, bring one foot forward, and slowly push yourself up.
Rest before walking. Sit down and take time to recover. Check for injuries before continuing your activities.

If you cannot get up

Do not force yourself to stand. Trying to get up when injured may make the injury worse.
Call for help. Use your phone, personal emergency response device, or call out to someone nearby.
Stay as comfortable as possible. If you can move safely, adjust your position to reduce discomfort.
Keep warm. If possible, cover yourself with a blanket or clothing while waiting for assistance.
Get medical assistance. If you cannot get up safely, cannot reach help, or may be injured, call 911.

What to do after a fall

Even if you feel fine afterward, a fall is worth discussing with your healthcare provider.

Some injuries or symptoms may not be immediately noticeable. A healthcare provider can also help identify why the fall happened and whether changes to medications, mobility, or your surroundings could reduce future risks.

If you hit your head, especially if you take blood-thinning medication, seek prompt medical advice even if you initially feel well.

Regaining confidence after a fall

A fall can affect more than your physical health. You may feel worried about falling again or become less confident about moving around.

Avoiding activity altogether can weaken your muscles and make future falls more likely.

Talk with your healthcare provider about safe ways to stay active. Balance training, physiotherapy, or a fall prevention program may help rebuild confidence.

Learn more about responding to falls

The Public Health Agency of Canada provides an illustrated guide with advice on preventing falls and responding when they happen.

Read the fall prevention and response guide (PDF)

What the numbers say

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Falls are a major health concern for older adults in Canada. The following figures from the original Preventing Falls resource show why prevention matters.

A leading cause of injury

Falls are the leading cause of injury among older Canadians.

Over 1/3

The original resource reports that falls are associated with more than one-third of admissions to long-term care following hospitalization.

$20 billion

The original resource estimates the annual financial cost of injuries among older Canadians at approximately $20 billion.

Historical estimate from the original resource; not a current cost estimate.

Historical trends in falls

The original resource also highlights increases in fall-related injuries and deaths between 2003 and 2008.

43%

Reported increase in injuries due to falls between 2003 and 2008.

65%

Reported increase in deaths due to falls between 2003 and 2008.

About these figures: These statistics are reproduced from the original Pacific Regional Centre for Healthy Aging article. Some are historical and should not be interpreted as current Canadian estimates.

Prevention matters. Staying active, addressing health risks, and making everyday environments safer can help reduce the likelihood of falls and fall-related injuries.

Resources

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These resources provide additional information about preventing falls, making your home safer, choosing assistive devices, and finding support in British Columbia.

Websites and online guides

HealthLinkBC: Preventing Falls

Information about fall prevention for older adults, including ways to reduce risks around the home.

Visit HealthLinkBC

The Safe Living Guide

A Government of Canada guide to home safety for older adults. Covers home hazards, healthy eating, physical activity, medications, and safety aids.

Read The Safe Living Guide

Avoiding Falls — Canadian Frailty Network

Information and additional resources about understanding and reducing the risk of falls.

Explore Avoiding Falls

Finding Balance

A fall prevention initiative offering educational videos, factsheets, activity information, and resources for older adults.

Visit Finding Balance

Need health advice? Call 8-1-1

8-1-1

HealthLinkBC provides health information and navigation services for people in British Columbia.

Health service navigators can help you:

Find appropriate healthcare services
Navigate the healthcare system
Access health advice from qualified healthcare professionals

Health navigation services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Translation services are available.

For people who are deaf or hard of hearing, dial 7-1-1.

For non-emergency situations only. In a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.

Learn more about HealthLinkBC 8-1-1

Booklets and factsheets

You CAN Prevent Falls

A short Public Health Agency of Canada pamphlet covering practical fall prevention strategies, including ways to make your home safer.

Read the pamphlet (PDF)

Guide to Assistive Devices

A Government of Canada guide explaining equipment that can make daily activities safer, including canes, walkers, shower seats, grab bars, and other helpful devices.

Read the assistive devices guide (PDF)

Programs and community support

Osteofit and Get Up & Go

Fall prevention exercise programs offered through participating community and recreation centres in British Columbia.

These programs focus on helping older adults maintain strength, balance, and mobility.

Learn about Osteofit classes

Financial support for assistive devices

Some programs may help cover the cost of mobility aids and other assistive equipment.

Explore assistive device resources

Learn about your fall risk

Finding Balance: Fall Risk Quiz

A short, 10-question self-assessment designed to help you recognize factors that may increase your risk of falling.

This quiz is an educational tool and does not replace an assessment by a healthcare professional.

Take the fall risk quiz

Looking for support close to home? Your healthcare provider, local community centre, or HealthLinkBC can help you explore fall prevention programs and services available in your area.

Need more help?

🟦 HealthLink BC

📞 Call 811 (24/7)

Health information and advice from registered nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, exercise professionals, and health service navigators.

Call 811

Visit HealthLink BC

🟩 BC 211

📞 Call 211 (24/7)

Community programs, financial assistance, housing, transportation, caregiving, resources, and more.

Available in over 240 languages

Call BC211

Search BC211