
Anyone can fall. However, as we get older, our bodies change in ways that can increase our risk of falling. Falls are the the number one reason for injury-related deaths, hospitalizations and emergency department visits for older adults in Canada. They can have a lasting effect on quality of life, increase caregiver demands, and can lead to long-term care. To learn more about falls and what you can do to reduce your risk, please check out the sections below.
On this page
- What can cause a fall
- What you can do to prevent a fall
- What to do if you fall
- Learn how to prevent falls - online course
- Make your home safe
- Use safety aids
- Stay safe in winter
- Taking care of your health
- Resources
What can cause a fall
If you or someone you know has fallen, you are not alone. People fall for many reasons. Knowing your personal risks can help you take action to reduce your chance of falling.
Some of these causes of a fall include:
- History of a fall
- Problems with walking and balance
- Trip and slip hazards in your home and community
- Medication side effects
- Medical conditions
- Vision problems
- Footwear
- Fear of falling
- Lack of exercise
- Poor nutrition
What you can do to prevent a fall
The good news is that most falls are preventable. Taking action to prevent falls is one of the most important things you can do to stay independent as you get older.
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Complete the Staying Independent Checklist to help identify your risk of falling. Discuss the results with your healthcare provider and let them know of previous slips, trips or falls.
- You Can Prevent Falls has practical tips and a home safety checklist.
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Make your plan to reduce the risk of falling with My Falls Action Plan.
What to do if you fall
When you are alone
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Stay calm and don’t rush to get up.
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Make sure you are not injured before trying to move
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If you are injured or need help:
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Try to get help by making a loud noise, calling out for help or crawling to the telephone and dialing 911.
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Use your personal emergency response system if you have one
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If you are not injured
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Roll onto your side.
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Rest while your body and blood pressure adjust.
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Slowly get onto your hands and knees, and crawl to a sturdy chair.
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Put your hands on the chair seat and slide one foot forward so that it is flat on the floor. Keep the other leg bent so the knee is on the floor.
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From this kneeling position, slowly rise and turn your body to sit in the chair.
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Rest for a while before standing up
After a fall
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Talk with your health care provider about the fall, even if you did not hurt yourself. It is important to determine the cause and to help prevent another one.
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Don't let the fear of falling prevent you from being active. Inactivity is one of the main reasons people fall.
Video: Report all falls:
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