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Ratgeber / Physical Activity & Fall Prevention / Preventing falls at home: simple steps for more safety

Preventing falls at home: simple steps for more safety

Almost one in four people over 65 falls once a year — most of them at home. In simple language: how to defuse tripping hazards, stand more securely with movement, and what is important after a fall.

Dieser Inhalt ersetzt keine ärztliche Beratung. Bei gesundheitlichen Beschwerden oder Unsicherheiten wende dich bitte an eine Ärztin oder einen Arzt.

Falls are among the most common causes of injury in old age. This is not a matter of clumsiness — the body changes, leg strength decreases, and balance becomes more unstable. The good news: there is a lot you can do to prevent it from happening in the first place. This guide explains how in simple words.

How common are falls in old age?

According to figures from the Robert Koch Institute, almost one in four people aged 65 and over falls at least once a year. Among those over 80, it is around one in three. Some even fall multiple times.

Most falls do not happen outdoors, but in one's own home — where people feel safe and pay less attention. That is exactly why it is worth taking a quiet look around the apartment.

Making the home safer

Many tripping hazards can be quickly eliminated. Go through room by room:

  • Carpets and rugs: loose carpets slip or crease. Either put them away or secure them with a non-slip underlay.
  • Cables: power and telephone cables belong on the wall, not across the room.
  • Light: hallways, stairs, and the path to the toilet should be well lit. A nightlight or a motion detector helps when getting up at night.
  • Support in the bathroom: grab rails next to the toilet and in the shower provide safety. A non-slip mat in the tub or shower does too.
  • Stairs: a sturdy handrail, preferably on both sides, and clearly visible step edges.
  • Tidiness on the floor: do not leave newspapers, shoes, or bags on the floor where they can be overlooked when passing by.

Sturdy shoes instead of socks

It is easy to slip in socks or loose slippers. Sturdy slippers with non-slip soles that are closed at the back and provide good support are the safest. This is also a simple change with a big impact.

Staying active — the most important protection

The best protection against falls is a body that stands securely. Professional associations emphasize: regular strength and balance training significantly reduces the risk of falling. You don't have to be an athlete for this.

Even simple exercises help if you do them regularly:

  • Standing up and sitting down: stand up from a chair several times in a row without using your hands — this strengthens the legs.
  • Standing on one leg: hold onto the kitchen counter and stand on one leg for a short time, then switch.
  • Rocking on tiptoes: hold onto the backrest and slowly go up and down.
  • Going for a walk: a little bit every day, this keeps legs and circulation moving.

Regularity is what matters, not the exertion. Anyone who feels unsure should ask their doctor about fall prevention or rehabilitation sports offers nearby — health insurance companies often cover such courses.

Have eyes and medication checked

Two things are easily overlooked when it comes to falls:

  • Vision: those who see poorly overlook edges and obstacles. Have your eyes and glasses checked regularly.
  • Medication: some medications make you tired, dizzy, or lower your blood pressure — this increases the risk of falling. If you take several medications, have them checked at your doctor's office or pharmacy to see if they all go well together.

If it does happen

After a fall: do not jump up immediately. First check calmly if anything hurts, then get up slowly — preferably via the side and by supporting yourself on a sturdy piece of furniture.

Call emergency services at 112 if someone cannot get up after a fall, is in severe pain (especially in the hip or head), or if a broken bone is suspected.

Many people develop a fear of falling again after a fall. This fear leads to moving less — which makes them more unstable. Talk about it instead of withdrawing. Movement in small, safe steps is the way back to safety.

For relatives: what you can look out for

Anyone accompanying an older person can make a big difference — without being patronizing: searching the apartment together for tripping hazards, helping with the purchase of grab rails or sturdy slippers, encouraging them to take an exercise class, or simply coming along for a daily walk. Fixed appointments also help: a regular exercise appointment that you are reminded of turns a good resolution into a habit.

This article provides general information and does not replace medical advice. If you fall frequently, suffer from dizziness, or take several medications, discuss the causes with your doctor.

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