Experts’ 9 simple things over-60s can do to reduce risks of falls

Falls can be cause of serious injury or even fatal among older adults so it’s vital to do everything you can to prevent this from happening. Nonprofit organisation, Presbyterian Senior Living, has compiled a list of the simple and easy actions over-60s can take to reduce the chances of these accidents occurring.

While the actions aren’t drastic adjustments to seniors’ everyday lives, the small changes can make a huge difference. The tips range from advice on maintaining a healthy body to practical guidance on how to reorganise a home to create minimal accident risk. The experts said that by “staying active, alert and proactive, you can greatly reduce your risk and maintain independence and confidence in your everyday movement”.

The organisation recommended simple balance exercises such as “standing on one foot, heel-to-toe walking, or gentle yoga”, provided you have no underlying conditions making it unsafe to do so.

The action can improve stability and coordination, training your body to react more effectively if you stumble or trip up.

Similarly, regular movements strengthen muscles and improve balance and coordination, so the experts advise keeping up with gentle activities like walking, stretching, swimming, or light strength training.

Professional instructors are widely available at fitness classes in local sports centres and many offer adaptive equipment for those with physical challenges.

Shoes with nonslip soles and good support are highly recommended. According to the experts it’s also vital to ensure your shoes are the proper fit.

Walking around in socks, loose slippers or worn-out shoes can be a recipe for disaster with an increased risk of slipping.

Presbyterian Senior Living recommended keeping your home clutter-free.

They said: “Everyday items like cords, shoes, or bags left on the floor can become tripping hazards. Keeping walkways clear is one of the most effective ways to prevent falls at home for older adults.”

Tidying up regularly and ensuring corridors are clear is also important.

Standing up too quickly can increase chances of light headedness or dizziness, thereby increasing the chances of a fall. That’s why older adults should make sure they pause momentarily and steady themselves before walking anywhere.

Low or dim lighting might be an environmentally friendly move but it’s not always safe for seniors.

The experts said: “Make a habit of turning on lights as you enter a room. Also, use night-lights in hallways, bathrooms, and other areas of the house you may walk through at night. Being able to clearly see where you’re going greatly reduces risk.”

Drinking enough water and having a healthy diet improves the ability to stay steady on your feet.

Presbyterian Senior Living explained: “Proper hydration and nutrition play an important role in reducing fall risk in older adults, as weakness and fatigue can increase instability. Drinking enough water and maintaining a balanced diet supports muscle function and energy levels, helping you stay steady on your feet.”

The organisation explained that tools like canes and handrails are vital in ensuring safety.

They said: “For independent older adults, this can be tough. But canes, walkers, and handrails are not signs of weakness—they are tools that help keep you safe. If you feel unsteady, using support can help reduce fall risk and increase your confidence while moving.”

Some medicines can increase risk of drowsiness, leading to higher likelihood of falling. Asking a pharmacist for guidance for this is always helpful or review the side effects listed in the prescription’s information leaflet.