Older adults afraid of falling: making walking safe again at home

The right rehabilitation, along with changes to the home, can help older adults gradually move again with more confidence and safety.

Why are older adults afraid of falling?

After a fall, older adults may worry it will happen again, especially when walking to the bathroom, getting up from a chair or using the stairs. Some walk less and hold on to furniture as they move around.

When someone moves less for a long time, their muscles can weaken and their balance can decline, making walking and other activities harder. Confidence and physical ability should be cared for together.

How does a physiotherapist help?

The physiotherapist assesses muscle strength, balance, sitting and standing, walking and fall risk, then plans training that suits each person's abilities.

Training may start with simple activities such as standing up from a chair, standing balance and short walks, then gradually becomes harder as the person is ready, with the focus on safety and building confidence in moving.

Everyday activities can also be practised — walking to the bathroom, walking around the house or using the stairs — once the person is ready and has been assessed as safe to do so.

How can you make the home safer from falls?

• Keep walkways clear and put away cables and anything that could cause a trip
• Add enough light, especially in hallways and the bathroom at night
• Use non-slip mats and install grab rails where they are needed
• Choose chairs of a suitable height with armrests to help with sitting and standing
• Consider a walking aid as advised by a healthcare professional

How can families help?

Families can build confidence by offering encouragement, letting the older adult practise activities within their ability and supervising appropriately during practice. Don't rush or push them into activities they aren't ready for — but don't restrict all movement unnecessarily either.

Practice should stay within the person's ability, with someone supervising according to their level of risk, so movement can improve safely.

When should you get an assessment?

If an older adult is afraid to walk after a fall, is unsteady on their feet, has difficulty sitting and standing, or is starting to rely on others for daily activities, they should be assessed by a healthcare professional to identify risk factors and plan suitable rehabilitation.

If a fall causes severe hip or groin pain, inability to bear weight, unusual symptoms after a knock to the head, or sudden neurological symptoms, seek urgent medical care before starting any walking practice.

Good rehabilitation is not only about learning to walk again. It also builds confidence and the ability to manage daily activities, so older adults can live safely at home and be as independent as each person's potential allows.