Falls Prevention

In British Columbia, one in three older adults falls each year. Some falls are preventable. Learn how to prevent falls as you age.

Are you at risk?

Falls usually occur due to a loss of balance and an inability to recover balance. Learn about what contributes to falls. The provincial government also has an online questionnaire you can use to assess your risk.

Reducing the risk

The following activities can help prevent a fall:

• Increase physical activity and muscle strength
• Improve your mobility and balance
• Have regular vision check-ups and correct vision problems
• Review all medications with a doctor or pharmacist
• Reduce trip and slip hazards in the home or outdoors
• Eat a balanced diet – see Healthy eating and aging for adults
• Pay special attention to the following nutrients:
  • Protein foods like meat, fish, eggs, nuts, and dairy products help maintain muscle mass and recover from illness. Check if you’re getting enough at Protein Check
  • Vitamin B12 is a common deficiency in seniors, especially if you eat very little meat or dairy or if you are on a medication to reduce stomach acid. Check if you’re getting enough at Vitamin B12 Check
  • Vitamin D is difficult to get from foods alone. If you are over age 50, take a vitamin D supplement of 400 IU (10 mcg) a day, or as directed by your healthcare provider - see  Vitamin D and your health
  • Get enough calcium at Calcium and your health
  • Check out tips from Dietitians of Canada at Lower Your Risk of Osteoporosis - Unlock Food
• Finding Balance BC has additional resources, videos and tips to help prevent falls
• Got questions? Call HealthLink BC 8-1-1 Services to speak with a Dietitian or email a Dietitian
• Looking for food assistance or help with shopping or meal delivery? Call 2-1-1 or check BC Resource Finder 2-1-1