Preventing falls

Measures to prevent falls and thereby reduce the incidence and severity of fractures include:

• improving vision
• adjusting drug therapy if possible (eg drugs causing sedation, altered gait or postural hypotension)
• minimising household risks (preferably under the guidance of an occupational therapist)
• providing aids for daily living (eg walking aids, rails)
• minimising periods of immobilisation
• promoting exercise to maintain mobility, balance and strength.

Consider referral to a falls prevention clinic.