Falls prevention

Falls are the leading cause of unintentional injury in older Australians. As well as physical injury, falls can cause loss of confidence and fear of falling, so over time, older people may become less active, which may increase their risk of falling.

Evidence suggests falls can be prevented by exercising, modifying the environment (particularly at home) and reducing some medications. Vitamin D and calcium supplements can also reduce fall-related fractures.

Victorian health care providers and services can use a range of resources to assess the risks associated with falls, and then identify ways of addressing those risks.

Definition of a fall

A fall is an event that results in a person coming to rest inadvertently on the ground or floor or other lower level. Falls can be prevented.