

If you've fallen in the past, making changes to reduce your chances of having a fall can also help you overcome any fear of falling.

Some older people may be reluctant to seek help and advice from their GP and other support services about preventing falls, because they believe their concerns won't be taken seriously. However, all healthcare professionals take falls in older people very seriously because of the significant impact they can have on a person's health.

Discuss any falls you've had with your GP and say if it's had any impact on your health and wellbeing. Your GP can carry out some simple balance tests to check whether you're at an increased risk of falling in the future. They can also refer you to useful services in your local area.

Avoiding falls at home

Tips for preventing falls in the home include:

  • immediately mopping up spillages
  • removing clutter, trailing wires and frayed carpet
  • using non-slip mats and rugs
  • using high-wattage light bulbs in lamps and torches, so you can see clearly
  • getting help to do things that you're unable to do safely on your own
  • not walking on slippery floors in socks or tights

Strength and balance training

Doing regular strength exercises and balance exercises can improve your strength and balance, and reduce your risk of having a fall. This can take the form of simple activities such as walking and dancing, or specialist training programmes. 

Many community centres and local gyms offer specialist training programmes for older people. Exercises that can be carried out at home are also available. Ask your GP about training programmes in your area.


There's also evidence that taking part in regular tai chi sessions can reduce the risk of falls. Tai chi is a Chinese martial art that places particular emphasis on balance, co-ordination and movement.

Unlike other martial arts, tai chi doesn't involve physical contact or rapid physical movements, making it an ideal activity for older people.

Read more about physical activity guidance for older adults.

Medication review

If you're taking long-term medication, your GP should review your medicines at least once a year to make sure they're still right for you. It's particularly important that your medicines are reviewed if you're taking four or more medicines a day. 


See your GP or practice nurse if you haven't had your medicines reviewed for more than a year, or if you're concerned that the medications you or a relative are taking may increase the risk of falling.

Sight tests


Find an optician near you.

Not all visual problems can be treated. However, some problems, such as cataracts, can be surgically removed using cataract surgery.

Home hazard assessment





Fitting a personal alarm system may also be recommended, so that you or your relative can signal for help in the event of a fall. An alternative would be to keep a mobile phone within reach, so it's possible to phone for help after having a fall.

Contact your GP or local authority to ask about the help available in your local area. You can find your local authority on the GOV.UK website


Drinking alcohol can lead to loss of co-ordination and exaggerate the effects of some medicines. This can significantly increase the risk of a fall, particularly in older people.

Avoiding alcohol or reducing the amount you drink can reduce your risk of having a fall. Excessive drinking can also contribute to the development of osteoporosis.

Page last reviewed: 15/05/2015

Next review due: 15/05/2017