Falls are the leading cause of injury resulting in hospital admissions in over 65 year olds – and research shows that many are preventable.
It takes multiple strategies to reduce a fall risk.
This year the theme is ‘Staying Safe Starts with a Chat’.
The campaign aims to break the stigma around talking about falls to help Australians access appropriate care and begin early interventions.
Talking about falls isn’t about taking away independence; it’s about protecting it.
Falls don’t just happen. When you notice signs that an older person may be at risk, such as holding onto furniture when walking or showing possible indicators of a recent fall like bruising, start the conversation.
A simple chat can help people make small, practical changes or receive the support needed to keep them independent, safe and steady on their feet.
Improve safety at home – tips from the NSW Government Falls Prevention flyer:
• Have good lighting, especially between the bedroom and the bathroom at night and near any internal steps or stairs.
• Make sure walkways and corridors are kept clear and well lit.
• Check that mats and rugs are secure and have no tears or wrinkles. Put sticky strips on all mats and rugs or remove them.
• Install grab rails near steps and in the bathroom (towel rails are not strong enough to use as grab rails).
• Mark the leading edge of outdoor steps (for example, with white paint) so they are easy to see.
• Fix broken, uneven or cracked paths, patios and other walking surfaces. Report cracked footpaths to your local authority.
For more information, please visit Fall Prevention and Healthy Network website.