Falls are one of the most common reasons older Australians and veterans end up in hospital. The good news is that many falls are preventable with simple changes to routines and home safety. This guide offers practical, veteran-friendly tips to help you stay steady, confident, and safe at home.
Why falls happen
Falls are rarely caused by one thing. Most come from a combination of:
- reduced strength or balance
- poor lighting or clutter
- medication side effects
- dizziness on standing
- foot problems or unsafe footwear
- uneven surfaces
- rushing or fatigue
- health conditions like diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, or neurological changes
Even if you’ve never fallen before, risk can change over time — especially after illness or hospitalisation.
What you can do right now
1. Clear your walkways
- Keep hallways and living areas free from cords, shoes, loose rugs, and clutter.
- Avoid stacking items on the floor.
- If you need help tidying, ask a family member or nurse.
2. Improve lighting
- Use bright bulbs in hallways and bathrooms.
- Keep a night light in the bedroom and toilet area.
- Consider sensor lights in high-traffic areas.
3. Wear safe footwear
- Choose shoes with firm soles and good grip.
- Avoid loose slippers or socks on tiles.
- If you have numbness in your feet, get foot checks.
4. Take your time standing up
If you feel dizzy when you stand:
- sit for a moment before rising
- stand slowly
- hold onto a steady surface
- contact your GP if dizziness is regular
5. Arrange your home for easy access
- Keep everyday items within reach to avoid bending or climbing.
- Store heavy items at waist height.
Bathroom safety (where falls often happen)
- Use a non-slip mat in the shower.
- Install grab rails if needed.
- Keep towels and toiletries within easy reach.
- Dry floors quickly to prevent slipping.
Health factors worth checking
Medication review
Some medications increase falls risk by causing dizziness, sleepiness, or low blood pressure. If you’re unsure, ask your GP or nurse for a review.
Vision and hearing
Reduced vision makes steps and edges harder to see. Hearing affects spatial awareness. Regular check-ups help.
Feet and circulation
Veterans with diabetes or circulation issues may have reduced sensation in feet, increasing risk. Nursing checks or podiatry support matter.
Strength and balance exercises
You don’t need a gym to improve balance. Even small, consistent activity helps:
- short walks daily
- gentle chair-based exercises
- physiotherapy routines
- tai chi or balance programs if you’re interested
If you’re worried about getting started, a nurse or physiotherapist can guide you safely.
What to do if you fall
If you fall:
- Take a breath. Don’t rush to stand.
- Check for pain or injury.
- If you can’t get up safely or feel unwell, call 000.
- If you do get up, let someone know and arrange a check-in.
- Report it to your GP or nurse, especially if you hit your head.
How community nursing can help
DVA community nurses can:
- assess falls risk
- check blood pressure and medication effects
- provide safety recommendations
- liaise with GPs and allied health
- support rehabilitation after falls
- coordinate physiotherapy or OT as needed
Falls prevention is part of keeping veterans safe and independent — it’s never “too small” to ask about.
Want a falls-risk check at home?
Call 1300 71 09 63 and we’ll help you get started.
