Falling and Fractures: Causes, Prevention, and Recovery

Falling is one of the leading causes of injury and fractures among older adults — often leading to loss of independence, hospitalisation, or long-term disability. While anyone can experience a fall, the consequences are far more serious for older adults due to decreased bone density, slower reflexes, and chronic health conditions.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, falls are the most common cause of hospitalised injuries in Australia, accounting for 43% of all injury-related admissions. Fortunately, most falls — and the injuries from falls — are preventable through proactive measures such as balance training, vestibular rehabilitation, and simple home modifications.

At Summit Health Solutions, our team of Occupational Therapists (OTs) and Physiotherapists (PTs) provide in-home therapy and a specialised Fall Prevention Program to help older adults remain safe, mobile, and independent.

Understanding Falling and Fractures

Why Falls Happen

The risk of falling increases with age due to a combination of physical and environmental factors. Common causes include:

• Physical inactivity, which weakens muscles and reduces coordination
  

• Poor balance or dizziness from inner ear issue
  

• Vision changes or medication side effects
  

• Cluttered or uneven home environments
  

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 37 million falls severe enough to require medical attention occur globally each year — with older adults disproportionately affected.

Why Fractures Are So Common After a Fall

Older adults often experience osteoporosis, making bones more fragile. Even minor fall injuries can result in wrist, hip, or spinal fractures. The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care reports that a hip fracture is a debilitating injury that mostly occurs in people aged over 65 years, often leading to significant loss of independence and increased need for rehabilitation and support services.

The Role of Physical Inactivity in Fall Risk

Physical inactivity is one of the most significant modifiable risk factors for falls in the elderly. Without regular movement, muscles weaken, reaction times slow, and motor coordination declines.

A high-quality meta-analysis in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that exercise reduces the rate of falls by 23% in community-dwelling older adults, with balance and functional training as key components.

At Summit Health Solutions, our in-home OTs and PTs guide seniors through customised movement and balance programs designed to rebuild confidence, stability, and strength safely within their own home environment.

Balance Training and Vestibular Rehabilitation

Improving Balance and Mobility

Balance training is essential for fall prevention. Exercises that strengthen the legs and core — such as heel-to-toe walking or single-leg stands — help older adults react quickly when losing balance.

Current research mentions that balance-focused programs not only reduce fall risk but also enhance posture and mobility in everyday tasks.

Vestibular Rehabilitation for Dizziness and Coordination

Many older adults experience dizziness or vertigo due to inner ear disorders that affect balance. Vestibular rehabilitation, offered by physiotherapists, retrains the brain to process balance signals more effectively. Vestibular rehab as a proven therapy to reduce dizziness and improve steadiness in people prone to fall injuries.

Falls in the Elderly: The Hidden Impact

Beyond the physical harm of fractures, falls can have long-term emotional consequences. Fear of falling again often leads to avoidance of activity — which then causes physical inactivity, further increasing the risk of another fall. Studies warn that this fear-driven inactivity cycle contributes to loss of independence and increased reliance on carers.

That’s why it’s vital to not only treat injuries but also rebuild confidence and mobility. At Summit Health Solutions, we help break that cycle through targeted therapy, education, and safe home-based exercises.

Preventing Falls and Fractures at Home

1. Home Safety Modifications

Simple changes can make a significant difference: removing loose rugs, improving lighting, and installing grab rails in the bathroom. The Better Health Channel (Victoria) provides a detailed list of environmental adjustments proven to lower fall risk.

2. Strength, Balance, and Motor Coordination Training

Consistency matters. Daily practice of balance training and motor coordination exercises helps reinforce stability. Our therapists often use task-specific exercises — for example, practising stepping over obstacles or standing from a seated position without support.

For more safety tips, you can also read our related post:
👉 Fall Prevention Strategies for Seniors: A Practical Guide to Staying Safe and Independent at Home

3. Use Our Free Falls Prevention Checklist

Prevent accidents before they happen.
👉 Download our Falls Prevention Checklist — a simple, step-by-step guide to identifying potential hazards and improving home safety for your loved ones.

Recovery After a Fall or Fracture

The Australian & New Zealand Guideline for Hip Fracture Care states that “people should be offered the opportunity to sit out of bed and start the process of walking again the day after surgery taking weight on the affected limb as pain permits.

At Summit Health Solutions, our team brings Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy directly to your home. Whether recovering from fractures, regaining movement after surgery, or rebuilding balance after a fall, our professionals provide compassionate, evidence-based care that promotes independence.

FAQs

1. What causes most falls in the elderly?

Common causes include physical inactivity, poor balance, vision issues, and unsafe home environments. Many of these risk factors can be managed with therapy and home safety adjustments. 

2. How can physical therapy help prevent falls?

Physiotherapists design exercise plans to improve strength, balance, and coordination — reducing the likelihood of losing stability during daily activities. 

3. What is vestibular rehabilitation, and who needs it?

It’s a therapy that retrains balance systems in the brain to reduce dizziness and instability. It benefits those with vertigo or unsteadiness after illness or injury. 

4. How long does it take to recover from a fall or fracture?

Recovery varies based on age, injury type, and activity level, but early therapy typically speeds up recovery and helps prevent long-term fall injuries. 

5. Can falls really be prevented?

Yes — through fall prevention programs that combine exercise, home safety, and professional support. Summit Health Solutions offers a tailored Falls Prevention Program designed to help seniors stay strong and independent.

Falling and fractures don’t have to be an inevitable part of ageing. With the right combination of movement, environment safety, and professional support, falls can be significantly reduced — or prevented altogether.

At Summit Health Solutions, our experienced team of therapists delivers Occupational and Physical Therapy directly to your home, providing the tools and confidence needed to prevent falls, recover safely, and maintain independence.

Because fall prevention isn’t just about avoiding injuries — it’s about empowering seniors to live stronger, safer, and more active lives.