Risk factors for falls
Risk factors for falls increase an individual’s likelihood of falling. Falls result from a combination of risk factors – both intrinsic and extrinsic factors.
The presence of multiple risk factors increases the likelihood and severity of a fall. A persons’ falls risk increases as they age. Other non-modifiable risk factors include cultural background (Indigenous people aged 45+) and medical history (including history of falls).
Preventing and minimising fall risk factors is key to reducing the incidence and severity of falls. More information on falls prevention can be found here (link to inpatient falls management and inpatient falls prevention).
Common risk factors in falls risk
- Decreased muscle strength and deconditioning
- Impaired gait or balance issues
- Reduced physical activity ultimately leading to deconditioning
- Impaired eyesight
- Fear of falling
- Poor reaction times
- Continence challenges
- Sensory loss
- Impaired cognitive status
- Insufficient lighting
Environmental factors in falls risk
- Poor lighting
- Slippery or wet floors
- Uneven surfaces
- Obstacles or items present in walkways/frequented areas indoors and outdoors
- Lack of accessible features – such as handrails or ramps
- Poor markings of environment – such as stairs or curbs that lack contrast marking.
- Location – most falls occur around the bedside or in the bedroom
- Time of day – falls commonly occur at times when observational capacity is low
Health conditions related risk factors in falls risk
- Vision impairments
- Cognitive impairments
- Medications (falls risk increasing drugs)
- History of falls, especially injurious falls
- Chronic medical condition/s affecting balance and mobility – including (but not limited to): arthritis, dementia, lower limb joint replacement, postural hypotension, stroke and osteoporosis.
- Long periods of inactivity resulting in deconditioning.
- COVID-19 and other infections
Intrinsic factors in falls risk
- Poor nutrition
- Foot problems – corns, bunions, swelling etc.
- Footwear – inappropriate for environment, poorly fitting or worn
- Walking aids - unsuitable or poorly maintained
- Clothing that is too long or loose
- Alcohol or substance use
Unrealistic self-assessment of ability – climbing ladders, lifting heavy objects.
Occupation related in falls risk
- working in hazardous environments, such as slippery, cluttered or unstable surfaces.
- not adhering to workplace health and safety guidelines.
- engaged in tasks that demand physical or frequent movement and balance, for example construction work.
Last reviewed: 02-05-2024