There Is a Way to Fall! And Why You Should Know About Falls Prevention

I recently led a 45-minute falls prevention workshop, which really sparked some powerful conversations.

It all started during a chat with a friend who mentioned several members of her community had experienced falls that required long, difficult recoveries. As we kept talking, she remembered I work in this very field. She said something that stuck with me:

“I had no idea there was so much to know about falls prevention.”

That’s the thing — falls prevention isn’t common knowledge, even though it should be. I’ve seen this first-hand working in the NHS, and I’m here to share what I know, because it could make a difference for you or someone you love.

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The Shocking Stats About Falls (Especially in Older Adults)

Let’s start with some facts:

• Around 250,000 emergency hospital admissions happen annually in the UK due to falls.

• That’s over 8,500 falls per day.

• Every minute, six people over the age of 65 fall.

• One in three people aged 65+ experience a fall.

• For those over 80, that number jumps to more than one in two.

And these are just the falls that result in a hospital admission. The truth? Falls happen at every age; we just don’t all end up in A&E.

Why Falls Become More Dangerous as We Age

When you’re in your 20s or 30s, you might trip, brush it off, and move on. As you reach your 40s and 50s, the healing process starts taking longer. Once you're over 60 or 70, a fall can mean serious injury, loss of independence, or even life-altering consequences.

That’s why understanding why falls happen and how to prevent them is so important.

The 4 Main Types of Falls (And Why They Matter)

I often begin by saying: Not all falls are the same. Knowing what kind of fall occurred helps us understand the underlying causes and how to reduce future risk.

1. Mechanical Falls

These are caused by external factors like tripping over a rug, a loose wire, a child’s toy, or uneven pavement.

✅ Tip: If you keep tripping over the same thing, move it, fix it, or get it out of the way.

2. “Legs Give Way” Falls

This usually points to an internal or medical issue. For example, osteoarthritis, muscle weakness, or neurological conditions can cause your legs to suddenly lose strength.

✅ Tip: See a GP or physio to investigate and manage the root cause.

3. Dizziness-Related Falls

This can be due to low blood pressure, dehydration, or medication side effects.

✅ Tip: Get your medications reviewed regularly, especially in hot weather.

4. Near Falls

Ever almost fallen but caught yourself at the last second? These are early warning signs.

✅ Tip: If near-falls are happening more often, don’t wait for the “big” one. Act now.

How to Actually Fall (Yes, There’s a Safer Way)

Believe it or not, there is a better way to fall — one that reduces your chance of injury.

Falling

If Someone Else Is Falling:

Never try to catch someone in full motion. Instead:

• Support them if you can and help lower them safely to the floor.

• This avoids added injury from fighting the fall or pulling someone the wrong way.

If You’re Falling:

I always tell my clients:

Try to relax into the fall.

It may sound strange, but tensing up or trying to resist the fall often leads to more injury. Those who fall regularly (due to chronic conditions) often learn to ease themselves down or sit to the ground intentionally when they feel a fall coming on.

What to Do After a Fall

Can you get up on your own?

• If yes: Take your time. Shock sets in fast. Roll to your side, get on all fours, and use a stable chair or surface to pull yourself up. Rest once upright, then see your GP as soon as possible to rule out internal injuries.

• If no: Stay calm and call for help. Do not move if there’s any chance of a head or neck injury. Wait for paramedics to assess you.

We Can’t Stop Falls Completely, But We Can Reduce the Risk

Here’s what works:

• Exercise: Strength and balance training are some of the most effective tools to prevent falls.

• Awareness: Know your triggers. Pay attention to your environment and body.

• Support: Get help managing health conditions or making your home safer.

That’s exactly what we focus on at the Health Hub, helping you find the right program that builds strength, balance, and confidence at your own pace.

Final Thoughts

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Falls aren't just something that happens to older people. They can affect anyone, and their impact grows with age.

By understanding the type of fall, learning how to fall more safely, and taking proactive steps, we can all work toward a safer future for ourselves and our loved ones.

Want Support With Falls Prevention?

👉 Reach out to us at the Health Hub for guidance, exercise programs, and helpful resources tailored to your needs. Prevention starts with awareness, and it starts today.