How can older adults prevent falls?

Strength and balance training (tai chi, Otago programme) cuts falls by around 30%. Also: home hazard checks, medication review, eye tests every 2 years and vitamin D 10 mcg/day. Contact your GP or NHS falls clinic if you've fallen twice in a year.

How can older adults prevent falls?

Medically reviewed · Louis Maxwell, HCPC PH128483 Updated 11 September 2026

How can older adults with arthritis prevent falls?

Fall prevention usually combines strength and balance exercise, a medication and vision review, suitable footwear, and changes to hazards at home. Ask a GP, physiotherapist or local falls service for an individual assessment if you have fallen, feel unsteady or are worried about falling.

Medically reviewed by Maxwell

First Contact Practitioner • HCPC PH128483 • Last updated June 2026

Reviewer details and the site's clinical review process are documented in our editorial standards.

1. Understanding fall risk in arthritis

One in three adults over 65 falls each year — more for those with arthritis. Risk factors cluster: muscle weakness, balance loss, slower reactions, joint pain altering gait, medications causing dizziness, vision changes and environmental hazards. Addressing several at once works best.

2. Home safety: the checklist

Remove loose rugs or secure them with non-slip backing
Install grab rails by the toilet, shower and front door
Fit bright lighting on stairs and night-lights between bed and bathroom
Wear supportive, well-fitting footwear indoors — not slippers without grip
Keep frequently-used items within easy reach to avoid stretching or stooping
Use a stairlift or banister on both sides for steep stairs

3. Balance and proprioception training

Balance is trainable at any age. Start with simple drills at a kitchen counter: stand on one leg 10 seconds (build to 30), heel-to-toe walking, weight shifts. Tai chi reduces falls by around 20% and is suitable for most older adults — see our tai chi for balance guide.

4. Strength training to prevent falls

Strong legs catch you when balance fails. Prioritise quadriceps (sit-to-stand, step-ups), glutes (bridges, sideways leg lifts), calves (heel raises) and core (gentle planks at a counter). Two sessions per week, building from 1 to 3 sets of 10–12.

5. When a fall happens: immediate response and recovery

Stay calm and check for pain or injury before moving. If you may be injured, feel unwell or cannot get up safely, use a phone or pendant alarm and keep warm while you wait for help. Call 999 for a serious injury or emergency. Tell your GP or another healthcare professional about a fall so they can consider strength, medication, vision and home hazards.

Sources and further guidance

Related guides

Frequently asked questions

Why do older adults with arthritis fall more often?

Arthritis reduces muscle strength, joint stability and balance reactions. Pain alters walking patterns, medications can cause dizziness, and reduced activity erodes confidence — together raising fall risk substantially.

What exercise helps prevent falls?

Programmes that combine progressive strength and balance work are commonly used for people at risk of falls. The best programme is one matched to your health, mobility and current balance.

Are walking aids a sign of giving up?

No. A correctly fitted stick or frame increases confidence, reduces falls and lets you stay active longer. They are tools — not failures.

What should I do immediately after a fall?

Check for pain or injury before trying to move. If you may be injured, feel unwell or cannot get up safely, use a phone or pendant alarm and keep warm while you wait for help. Call 999 for a serious injury or emergency.

Do certain medications increase fall risk?

Yes. Sedatives, sleeping tablets, blood pressure medications and some painkillers can cause dizziness. Ask your GP for a medication review if you have fallen.

Should I get a home safety check?

A home assessment can identify hazards and useful equipment. Availability and referral routes vary, so ask your GP, local council or UK healthcare service whether an occupational therapy or falls assessment is available locally.

More guides on falls and staying steady

Last updated 2026-07-01. This is general information, not a substitute for personalised medical advice.

How can older adults prevent falls?