Keeping Elders Safe: Why Fall Prevention Matters More Than Ever in India

Falls are one of the most common and serious health concerns for older adults in India — yet they are often dismissed as "small accidents." In reality, a single fall can lead to fractures, hospitalisation, long recovery periods, fear of walking, and a significant loss of independence. According to the World Health Organization, falls are the second leading cause of unintentional injury deaths worldwide, and older adults are at highest risk (World Health Organization, 2021).

In India, the numbers are rising as the population ages. A community-based study found that nearly one in three elders experiences at least one fall every year (Sirohi et al., 2017). The reasons range from weak balance and poor vision to unsafe home environments and chronic illnesses.

Why Falls Happen More Often as We Age

As people grow older, the body changes in ways that make falls more likely:

• Reduced strength and balance
• Slower reflexes
• Vision or hearing difficulties
• Medications that cause dizziness
• Joint pain, arthritis, or neuropathy
• Cluttered or unsafe home spaces

Even small things like poor lighting, loose rugs, or slippery bathroom floors can turn into major hazards.

What Happens After a Fall?

A fall isn't just a physical injury — it affects confidence, emotional wellbeing, and daily life. Many elders become fearful of walking or going out, which leads to isolation, reduced activity, and faster physical decline. Research shows that this "fear of falling" is often more disabling than the fall itself (Delbaere et al., 2010).

How Families Can Reduce Fall Risks at Home

Simple steps can significantly reduce the chances of a fall:

• Improve lighting in hallways and bathrooms
• Install grab bars in the bathroom and near stairs
• Remove loose rugs or clutter
• Ensure the home has non-slip flooring or mats
• Encourage regular exercise like walking or light strength training
• Review medications with a doctor to check for dizziness-causing side effects
• Schedule regular eye and ear check-ups
• Use mobility aids like walkers or canes if recommended

These changes can create a safer environment and give elders more confidence to move around freely.

How ElderWorld Helps Prevent Falls

At ElderWorld, keeping elders safe, mobile, and confident is one of our top priorities. We support fall prevention through:

• Daily mobility support and safe walking assistance
• Trained caretakers and nurses who monitor balance, hydration, and medication
• Buddy services that ensure elders are never alone during risky tasks
• Home safety checks to identify hazards and suggest simple modifications
• Exercise-based engagements that improve strength, flexibility, and balance
• Transportation assistance to reduce risks associated with stepping out alone
• Personalised care plans that adapt to each elder's medical and physical needs

With consistent support, elders experience fewer falls, faster recovery if they occur, and greater confidence in their daily activities.

Let's Keep Every Elder Safe, Steady, and Independent

Falls are preventable — and early action makes the biggest difference. If you're concerned about an elder's mobility, balance, or safety at home, we're here to help.

ElderWorld: Helping elders live confidently, safely, and on their feet — every single day.

References

• Delbaere, K., Close, J. C., Brodaty, H., Sachdev, P., & Lord, S. R. (2010). Determinants of disparities between perceived and physiological risk of falling among elderly people: Cohort study. BMJ, 341, c4165.
• Sirohi, A., Kaur, R., Goswami, A. K., Mani, K., Nongkynrih, B., & Gupta, S. K. (2017). Prevalence and risk factors of falls among community-dwelling elderly in India: A community-based cross-sectional study. Indian Journal of Community Medicine, 42(1), 65–69.
• World Health Organization. (2021). Falls. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/falls