You’ve Had a Fall
A fall could be a signal, not just an accident. For example, it could reflect changes in strength, balance, vision, footwear, new infection or illness, blood pressure, continence urgency, environment, or medication effects. After one fall, the risk of another often increases — especially if the cause isn’t identified and support isn’t adjusted.
Best practice in the community is to look for modifiable risk factors and put practical prevention steps in place (not just “be careful”).
Things you might notice
A “near miss” or stumble before the fall
New fear of walking, rushing to the toilet, or avoiding certain rooms
More unsteadiness when turning, standing up, or walking on uneven surfaces
Pain on movement (transfers, walking, toileting, personal care) even if pain at rest seems mild
Dizziness, blurred vision, or “not feeling right” at particular times of day
A pattern: falls around medication times, showering, night-time, or when support is shorter/rushed
Questions you can ask — or talk through with someone you trust
Where and how did the fall happen — and what time of day was it?
What was happening just before it (getting up, rushing to the toilet, turning, carrying something, stepping over a threshold)?
Were injuries checked properly, and has pain on movement been assessed (not only pain at rest)?
Were dizziness, blood pressure, hydration, vision or footwear discussed?
Have any medications changed recently (including sleeping tablets, pain medicines, antidepressants, blood pressure tablets)? Medication review is a key part of falls prevention.
Has the GP been notified (especially if there’s ongoing pain, head impact, repeated falls, or a clear change in function)?
Has anything changed in day-to-day support (new worker, shorter visit, different routine, meals later, less supervision)?
If it’s urgent (don’t wait): head strike with symptoms, severe pain, inability to weight-bear, new confusion, suspected fracture, or you’re worried about a bleed (especially on blood thinners). (In practice, this is “call for medical help now”.)
If someone supports you
A family member, friend or support worker can help by asking for:
A brief written summary of what happened and when (including any injuries noted)
Notes on pain on movement, walking confidence, and whether aids are being used safely
A list of any recent changes (medications, routines, supports, recent illness)
A plan for what’s being trialled to reduce the risk of another fall
Simple things you can ask for
A falls risk review that looks at multiple causes (mobility, medications, vision, continence, footwear, environment)
Physio for strength and balance training (exercise is one of the most effective fall-prevention strategies)
Occupational Therapy home safety check (lighting, trip hazards, bathroom setup, rails, gait aid fit)
A medication review (GP/pharmacist) — especially if there’s sedation, dizziness, confusion or new falls risk
A plan to address night-time risks: bedside lighting, safe footwear, toileting plan, sensor light, clearer pathways
If confidence has dropped: a short-term increase in supervision/support while things stabilise
Why it’s okay to ask
Falls prevention works best when patterns are noticed early and support is adjusted before the next fall. Asking for a review isn’t blame — it’s the practical step that helps everyone keep you safe at home.
Why this matters for families and friends
Falls can trigger fear and withdrawal. Calm, specific questions (“What time did it happen?” “How is pain when standing?”) help turn worry into action — and help services respond clearly and promptly.
