Stay Strong, Stay Steady: Falls Prevention at Home and in the Community
As we age, our risk of falling increases — but that doesn’t mean a fall is inevitable. At Mid Murray Support Service (MMSS), we believe that with the right knowledge, environment, and support, most falls can be prevented.
Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among older Australians, but they don’t have to be part of getting older. Many falls are caused by a combination of risk factors, including health conditions, medications, or hazards in and around the home. That’s why prevention is key.
Simple Steps to Stay on Your Feet
Whether you’re living independently or receiving support, these tips can help reduce your risk of falling:
1. Keep Moving
Staying active is one of the best ways to maintain strength, balance, and coordination. Gentle exercises such as walking or stretching can do wonders for your confidence and stability.
Why not join one of our Bend and Stretch sessions? These group classes, run by a qualified personal trainer, are tailored to support flexibility and mobility in a safe and social environment — a fantastic way to stay strong and feel more confident on your feet.
2. Review Your Medications
Some medications can affect your balance or cause dizziness. Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a medication review to ensure you’re on the safest combination for your health needs.
3. Check Your Vision and Hearing
Eyesight and hearing changes can throw off your balance. Regular check-ups and keeping your glasses or hearing aids up to date can help you stay aware of your surroundings.
4. Make Your Home Safer
Small changes at home can make a big difference:
Keep pathways clear of clutter
Use non-slip mats
Ensure good lighting in hallways and stairs
Consider grab rails for added safety
For eligible Home Care Package clients, we may be able to arrange an Occupational Therapist assessment, who can guide any home modifications if required. If this is something that you would like us to investigate for you, call our friendly Home Care Team on 08 8569 1832.
5. Wear the Right Footwear. Avoid loose slippers or shoes with slippery soles. Choose well-fitted, supportive footwear with good grip.
We're Here to Help
At MMSS, we take a holistic approach to your well-being. While we don’t provide medical care or health monitoring, our team is committed to noticing and reporting changes that may affect your day-to-day safety and comfort.
If our staff observe any concerns related to your safety or risk of falls, they’ll discuss these with you and our team to help ensure you’re supported and referred to the right professionals when needed.
Let’s Stay Upright, Together
Preventing falls isn’t about limiting movement — it’s about staying active and independent for as long as possible. Let’s work together to make every step safe and every day a little more confident.
To find out how MMSS can support you or someone you love with falls prevention, contact our team on 08 8569 1832 for more information.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is accurate as of April 2025. It is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or professional advice. Mid Murray Support Service is not a medical organisation, and we recommend consulting with healthcare professionals for specific medical concerns related to dementia care.