Falls are one of the most common and preventable health emergencies older adults face.
More than one in four adults aged 65 and older fall each year, and falling once doubles the likelihood of falling again. For older adults and their families, the consequences can be severe: hospitalization, long-term rehabilitation, and loss of independence.
But there is good news. Many falls are preventable with the right approach. Whether your loved one is still living at home or already showing signs of instability, it’s possible to act quickly and make impactful changes.
At The Kensington Sierra Madre, we believe prevention begins with awareness, planning, and compassionate support.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the urgent signs to watch for, immediate steps to take, and how our specialized care environment helps dramatically reduce fall risk.
The Real Cost of a Fall
A fall isn’t just a stumble. For older adults, it can be a life-altering event. A broken hip, concussion, or extended hospital stay can set off a cascade of complications, many of which might be avoided with early intervention.
Beyond the physical impact, the emotional consequences can be just as severe.
Fear of falling again can lead to isolation, inactivity, and a decline in strength and balance, ironically increasing the likelihood of another fall. This cycle is common and difficult to break without structured support.
At The Kensington Sierra Madre, our focus on fall prevention is woven into every element of our care, because we know what’s at stake.
7 Signs Your Loved One May Be at Risk
Preventing senior falls starts with recognizing the risk. These red flags may indicate that a loved one is in danger of falling soon:
- Unsteady walking or balance issues
- Recent history of falls or “close calls”
- Holding onto furniture while walking
- Difficulty standing from a chair or bed
- Slower movements or noticeable shuffling
- Vision or hearing loss
- Changes in medication that affect coordination or blood pressure
If you’ve observed one or more of these, it’s time to act before a fall happens. That doesn’t mean making a sudden move or panicking. It means taking small, fast, strategic steps toward safety and support.
What You Can Do Right Now
Here are actions you can take within days or even hours to reduce fall risk for your loved one at home:
1. Schedule a Medical Review
Consult your loved one’s physician about recent changes in mobility, cognition, or medications. Certain prescriptions, especially those for blood pressure, anxiety, or sleep, may increase fall risk.
2. Assess and Modify the Home
Make small changes that yield big results:
- Remove loose rugs and cords
- Add grab bars in bathrooms
- Improve lighting, especially near stairs
- Install railings and nonslip mats
- Keep frequently used items within easy reach
A professional home safety evaluation can uncover hazards you may miss.
3. Prioritize Balance and Strength
If your loved one is open to it, even basic strength and balance exercises can make a meaningful difference. Encourage short walks or consider gentle movement classes designed for older adults.
4. Start the Conversation Early
It’s never easy to talk about needing help, but these conversations are most effective when they happen before a crisis. Express concern from a place of love and care, not control.
When In-Home Prevention Isn’t Enough
Despite our best efforts, there comes a time when the risk of falling at home becomes too high.
If you’re starting to feel that your loved one is no longer safe on their own, or if in-home care is no longer sufficient, it may be time to consider a transition to assisted living or memory care.
At The Kensington Sierra Madre, we offer a secure, welcoming environment designed specifically to reduce fall risk and support physical wellness.
Our rehabilitation services include access to physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Our caregiving teams are trained to assist with ambulation, transfers, and mobility safely and respectfully.
How We Prevent Falls at The Kensington Sierra Madre
Fall prevention is not a one-time fix, it’s a daily priority in our community. Here’s how we help residents stay upright and confident:
- 24/7 supervision from trained professionals
- Purposeful design elements, such as non-slip flooring and secured outdoor areas
- Proactive care planning based on individual needs
- On-site physical therapy to strengthen balance and mobility
- Fitness classes and wellness activities to keep residents moving
- Medication management to minimize side effects impacting stability
- Personalized dining programs that promote strength through nutrition
By addressing physical, emotional, and environmental contributors, we help break the cycle of fear and inactivity.
Don’t Wait for a Fall to Act
Families often feel overwhelmed or unsure when it comes to taking the next steps. But waiting for a fall to occur can make the journey harder for everyone involved.
The sooner you begin planning, the more control you have over the outcome.
Whether your loved one needs a short-term stay to recover after a fall or a long-term solution to prevent future accidents, we’re here to help.
You don’t have to do this alone. The Kensington Sierra Madre offers safety, comfort, and a loving community that truly understands how to support older adults at every stage of life.
Let’s Talk About Next Steps
Is your loved one showing signs of fall risk? Do you feel that home is no longer the safest environment?
Contact The Kensington Sierra Madre today to schedule a tour or speak with a care advisor. We’re here to guide you with compassion, clarity, and Our Promise: to love and care for your family as we do our own.