When an older adult experiences a fall, or is at risk of one, it can feel like everything changes in a single moment.
A brief loss of balance can lead to injuries, hospital stays, or long-term decline. For many families, it’s only after a serious fall that they begin to seek help.
At The Kensington Reston, we know that the sooner you step in to prevent senior falls, the better the outcomes physically, emotionally, and financially.
Whether your loved one recently slipped or you’re noticing signs of instability, this guide outlines how to respond quickly and thoughtfully to keep them safe and supported.
1. Recognize the Warning Signs Before a Fall Happens
Falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths and emergency department visits for adults aged 65 and older.
Each year, over 14 million, or one in four older adults, report falling, and about 37% of those falls result in an injury that limits activity or requires medical attention.
If you notice:
- Difficulty rising from chairs or beds
- Clutching furniture for balance
- Hesitance on stairs or unfamiliar paths
- A pronounced fear of falling or a change in walking patterns
- A “minor” fall that seems insignificant
…it could be time to take action to prevent senior falls.
2. Request a Fall Risk Evaluation
Your first step should be a fall risk assessment. A primary care physician, a physical therapist, or a geriatric specialist may conduct this.
It typically includes:
- Balance and gait testing
- Medication review for dizziness or sedation
- Vision and hearing checks
- Strength and mobility screening
- Discussion of recent falls or near misses
At The Kensington Reston, we can connect families with local health professionals or perform informal assessments to help determine next steps. Early identification helps guide the right interventions before a fall occurs.
3. Make Immediate Home Safety Improvements
Falls often happen due to environmental hazards, not just health conditions. You can prevent senior falls by taking a fresh look at your loved one’s home environment.
Focus on these fast-impact changes:
- Remove throw rugs and low-lying clutter
- Add grab bars in the bathroom and near stairs
- Improve lighting in hallways, entries, and closets
- Place essentials within easy reach to avoid bending
- Install non-slip mats in showers and tubs
Even with these improvements, it can be difficult to fully fall-proof a home. That’s why families often begin exploring assisted living communities like The Kensington Reston, where safety is built into every room.
4. Incorporate Strength and Balance Training
Muscle weakness and balance issues are among the top contributors to falls, but they can often be reversed with targeted movement.
Ask your loved one’s doctor about a physical therapy referral or low-impact exercise program.
At The Kensington Reston, our residents benefit from:
- Daily strength and balance classes
- Chair yoga and flexibility sessions
- Personalized rehab through our rehabilitation services
- Supervised walks and mobility coaching
These opportunities not only improve physical safety but restore confidence, a key element in preventing future falls.
5. Review Medications That May Increase Risk
Many common prescriptions, such as those for blood pressure, sleep, anxiety, or depression, can increase fall risk due to dizziness, sedation, or sudden drops in blood pressure.
Request a comprehensive medication review and ask the provider:
- Could any of these meds increase fall risk?
- Are there safer alternatives or better timing for doses?
- Should any medications be reduced or eliminated?
Our on-site nursing team at The Kensington Reston provides ongoing medication monitoring and communicates directly with physicians to ensure that every resident’s regimen supports their overall safety.
6. Introduce Mobility Aids Early and Confidently
Canes, walkers, and grab bars should be viewed as tools for independence, not signs of decline. But many seniors delay using them, feeling embarrassed or resistant.
Encourage your loved one to try mobility aids early before they’re needed in an emergency. Have a physical therapist adjust and train them on proper use.
At The Kensington Reston, mobility supports are seamlessly integrated into residents’ routines, helping them stay active and steady.
7. Prepare for Emergencies Just in Case
Even the best prevention plans should include a response plan. Make sure your loved one knows:
- How to use a medical alert system or call for help
- What to do after a fall (e.g., don’t rush to stand, check for pain or bleeding)
- Who to contact (family, neighbors, or 911)
- What symptoms after a fall require medical attention, such as confusion, severe pain, or dizziness
Our community is designed with fall response in mind, from in-suite call buttons to 24/7 on-site licensed nurses. You’ll have peace of mind knowing help is always moments away.
8. Know When It’s Time for a Safer Living Option
Sometimes, even with home modifications and support, the risk of falling remains high.
When your loved one needs more hands-on help with bathing, dressing, or mobility, a move to assisted living could be the safest choice.
The Kensington Reston provides a secure, beautifully designed environment where fall prevention is part of everyday life.
Our care includes:
- Personalized support with daily routines
- Ongoing monitoring of strength, balance, and vitals
- Full-service dining and hydration support
- A thoughtfully designed layout to reduce hazards
- Regular communication with family and physicians
Early transitions help residents settle in while still active and independent, reducing the fear of falling and improving confidence.
Prevention Starts With You
You can’t prevent every fall, but you can prevent many of them by acting quickly and choosing the right environment for your loved one to age safely.
Take the first step today:
- Schedule a fall risk evaluation.
- Make immediate safety upgrades at home.
- Encourage daily movement and mobility support.
- Explore assisted living options before a crisis occurs.
At The Kensington Reston, Our Promise is to love and care for your family as we do our own. Whether your loved one is recovering from a fall or you’re ready to move proactively, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact The Kensington Reston today to schedule a tour or speak to our team about fall prevention and personalized support options.