Falls Prevention – How Occupational Therapy Helps You Stay Safe and Independent
- claire2876
- Jul 23
- 3 min read
A fall can change your life in a second. Each year, thousands of Australians—particularly older adults—experience falls that result in injury, hospitalisation, or loss of independence. But here’s the good news: most falls are preventable.
Occupational therapists (OTs) are trained to assess your environment, daily habits, mobility, and health factors that may increase your fall risk. Through early intervention, education, and tailored strategies, OTs help people of all ages remain safe in their homes and communities.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore why falls occur, how occupational therapy can help, and simple changes you can make today to prevent falls tomorrow.
Understanding the Causes of Falls
Falls are not just “part of getting older.” They happen due to a combination of factors that may include:
Muscle weakness and poor balance
Changes in vision or hearing
Unsafe home environments (e.g. poor lighting, clutter, slippery floors)
Medication side effects
Footwear or foot health problems
Reduced awareness of surroundings or cognition
Falls can lead to broken bones, head injuries, fear of falling, and reduced confidence—all of which can limit activity and independence.
How Occupational Therapists Prevent Falls
Occupational therapists take a holistic, personalised approach to fall prevention. They assess:
Your home environment for hazards (e.g. loose rugs, uneven steps)
Your mobility and how you transfer in and out of bed, chairs, and bathrooms
The way you complete daily tasks, including dressing, showering, and cooking
Use and safety of walking aids, such as walking sticks or frames
Cognition and memory, which can affect safety awareness
Medication use and potential interactions or side effects
From this assessment, your OT will create a plan tailored to your needs, which may include equipment recommendations, environmental modifications, strengthening exercises, and education for you and your carers.
Top OT-Recommended Tips for Preventing Falls
Here are simple, effective ways to reduce your risk of falling:
Clear the Clutter
Remove trip hazards such as power cords, shoes, and loose rugs. Keep pathways well-lit and clear.
Install Grab Rails
Grab rails in bathrooms, near toilets, and along stairways provide stability where you need it most.
Improve Lighting
Ensure all areas of your home are well-lit, especially stairwells, entries, and bathrooms. Use night lights if you get up during the night.
Choose the Right Footwear
Wear shoes with non-slip soles that support your foot and ankle. Avoid loose slippers or walking barefoot.
Use Non-Slip Mats
Place non-slip mats in wet areas such as the shower, bathroom, and kitchen.
Maintain Strength and Balance
Engage in daily activities or gentle exercise such as walking, balance training, or tai chi. OTs can refer you to allied health assistants or physiotherapists for exercise programs.
Sit to Dress
Sitting down to put on socks, pants, and shoes reduces your risk of losing balance.
Assistive Technology and Equipment for Fall Prevention
OTs can prescribe and train you in using helpful tools such as:
Shower chairs or stools
Over-toilet aids
Bed poles
Walking frames or sticks
Sock aids or long-handled shoehorns
Height-adjustable chairs
They also provide training to make sure equipment is fitted correctly and being used safely.
Falls Are Not Just a Concern for Older Adults
While falls are more common in people aged 65 and over, children and adults with disability, chronic illness, or neurological conditions are also at risk. At South Coast Therapy & Support Group, we support individuals across the lifespan to live safer, more confident lives.
Whether you’re returning home from hospital, living with multiple health conditions, or caring for someone who’s unsteady on their feet, we can help reduce the risk of falls before an injury happens.
Book a Falls Prevention Assessment Today
If you’ve had a fall, feel unsteady, or are worried about your or a loved one’s safety at home, now is the time to act. A professional falls prevention plan from an occupational therapist can restore independence and provide peace of mind.
We also offer home visit assessments and can coordinate with your GP or care team.
