Why Fall Prevention Matters
Across Canada, many older adults experience falls each year. According to the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), falls are a leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations among seniors and can reduce independence and quality of life.
Canada’s Fall Prevention Month provides an opportunity for families across Burnaby, BC to make proactive changes that reduce risks and help older adults stay confident at home.
Understanding Risk Factors
Falls are usually the result of multiple risk factors. Common contributors include:
- Environmental hazards: Loose rugs, poor lighting, uneven surfaces, or clutter
- Health conditions: Vision changes, arthritis, diabetes, or neurological disorders
- Medications: Some prescriptions cause dizziness, drowsiness, or low blood pressure
- Deconditioning: Weak muscles and poor balance from inactivity
- Cognitive changes: Memory loss or confusion that increases fall risk
The Fall Prevention Month campaign emphasizes that many of these risks are preventable with awareness and support.
Room-by-Room Home Safety Checklist
Making small home modifications can significantly reduce fall risk. Families can start with this checklist:
- Bathroom: Add grab bars near toilets and showers, use non-slip mats, and consider a shower chair
- Kitchen: Store items at waist height to avoid reaching or bending
- Living areas: Remove clutter, secure cords, and use sturdy furniture for balance
- Stairs: Install secure railings on both sides, improve lighting, and use non-slip treads
- Outdoors: Clear walkways of leaves, snow, or ice and ensure sturdy railings on steps
For practical checklists, visit the Regional Geriatric Program of Eastern Ontario.
Exercise as a Fall Prevention Strategy
Staying active is one of the most effective ways to prevent falls. Strength and balance exercises improve mobility and confidence. See senior-friendly activity ideas from ParticipACTION and local community programs.
Popular options include:
- Walking groups and indoor walking tracks
- Tai chi, yoga, or gentle chair-based routines
- Light resistance training for legs and core
Nutrition and Hydration
Strong bones and steady energy reduce the risk of falls. Seniors should focus on:
- Calcium and vitamin D for bone health
- Protein for muscle maintenance
- Plenty of vegetables, fruit, and whole grains
- Adequate water intake to prevent dizziness
For guidance, see Canada’s Food Guide.
Assistive Devices and Technology
Assistive tools make homes safer and help seniors maintain independence. Consider:
- Canes or walkers for stability (as recommended by a clinician)
- Non-slip shoes with good support
- Grabbers for reaching items
- Fall detection devices or smart watches with emergency alerts
Find fall-prevention resources at PHAC.
Encouraging Seniors Who Resist Change
Some seniors may resist safety modifications, believing they signal loss of independence. Families can:
- Present fall prevention as a way to extend independence, not limit it
- Involve older adults in decision-making
- Start with small, non-intrusive changes
How Home Instead Supports Fall Prevention
At Home Instead Vancouver & Burnaby , our Care Pros help reduce fall risks by:
- Assisting with safe mobility and transfers
- Providing reminders and companionship during daily routines
- Helping with light housekeeping to keep pathways clear
- Encouraging hydration and balanced nutrition
Our support complements clinical guidance by creating a safer, more supportive environment at home.
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