Interventions for falls: how to protect seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias against injury
Submitted by Beth Rush
Founder and Managing Editor
Body+Mind Magazine
It can be challenging to protect our elders from falling, but adding dementia into the mix can make it more difficult as well as frustrating. Preventing falls in seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias involves planning alongside several approaches.
Caring for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or other dementias can come with all sorts of challenges, and one of those includes interventions for falls. A simple trip or stumble can quickly lead to serious injuries and a decline in overall health.
Families and caregivers often feel a heavy burden, wondering how to create a safer living environment without compromising their loved one’s independence. Yet, with the right tools and tactics, you can greatly reduce fall risks and create a more secure place for your loved one.
Why are seniors with dementia at higher risk of falling?
Research shows that 28% to 35% of individuals over the age of 65 experience at least one fall per year, and the risk increases even more for seniors with dementia. Falls in older adults with dementia are common, creating a dangerous combination that demands careful attention.
Dementia — which includes various symptoms impacting memory, reasoning and problem-solving — can affect a senior’s ability to get around. One of the main factors contributing to this risk is the decline in cognition — or the mental processes involved in understanding — learning and decision-making. If you or someone you care for lives with dementia, cognitive impairments may result in disorientation, difficulty judging distances, or trouble recognizing hazards in their home.
Motor skills also take a hit, making tasks such as walking more challenging. Other factors lead to forgetfulness when using a walker or climbing stairs without assistance. These effects, in combination with other health issues — such as poor vision or muscle weakness — create a perfect storm that heightens the likelihood of falls.
Understanding the connection between dementia, cognition and fall risk is the first step toward addressing these challenges head-on. Care partners can implement effective strategies to reduce injury and improve everyday life.
Practical intervention tips for falls
Preventing falls in seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias involves planning alongside several approaches.
1. 
Declutter living spaces
Declutter living spacesKeeping a home clutter-free is a simple yet effective way to reduce fall risks. Everyday items like toys left on the floor, scattered shoes or even the edges of a rug can become dangerous tripping hazards for seniors with dementia.
You should ensure pathways are clear and that anything loose, like cords, is secure. Also, arrange furniture so that there is room for walking more easily. Creating an open, organized space promotes safety and reduces confusion for those with dementia.
2. Install safety features
Safety features are critical in fall intervention and can make all the difference in daily living. Grab bars, handrails and nonslip mats can provide the stability and support needed to move around safely. Motion-activated nightlights are another useful addition, ensuring that dimly lit areas are not hazardous after dark.
If you’re unsure where to start, many local agencies and nonprofits offer free or low-cost home safety assessments to identify potential risks. For example, reaching out to your area’s aging services can provide the guidance you need. They often connect caregivers with programs that assist in implementing home modifications, making it easier to create a safe space for your loved one’s needs.
3. Improve lighting
Proper lighting is an often overlooked aspect of fall prevention. Poorly lit areas can create shadows or make it difficult to see obstacles. Seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias may also struggle to adapt to sudden changes in lighting. For instance, they may have trouble moving from a brightly lit room to a darker hallway.
To reduce the risks of falls, ensure that all rooms, hallways and staircases have bright enough, consistent lighting. Soft lighting is also crucial to reduce glare, which may be disorienting.
4. Use assistive devices
Use assistive devicesWalkers and canes are great ways for seniors to maintain balance and stability as they move around. These devices were made to help those who experience difficulty with motor coordination or muscle weakness. However, it is important to ensure the assistive device fits properly and comfortably. You should also encourage and remind them to use their walker, as individuals with dementia may forget or resist using them.
For guidance on selecting and fitting the right one, you may consult with a physical or occupational therapist. The National Institute of Aging (NIA) also offers information about these devices and fall prevention strategies. It provides tips for older adults on choosing and using mobility aids.
5. Choose proper footwear
Footwear is surprisingly important in preventing falls. Shoes that are too loose, lack proper grip or have high heels can increase instability, making tripping more likely. Even wearing socks on slippery floors can pose a risk.
For instance, you may have seen a loved one shuffling through the house in old, worn-out slippers. While they may feel comfortable, these slippers often lack the support and traction to keep them safe. Opt for well-fitted, nonslip shoes with a sturdy sole and closed back to provide maximum stability. For indoor use, nonslip socks can be a safer alternative to bare feet.
6. Establish routines
Establish routinesBuilding consistency in a senior’s life is one of the best ways to reduce falls. Familiar patterns and predictable schedules lessen confusion and anxiety, which can lead to unsafe behavior, such as wandering into hazardous areas or rushing through tasks.
For example, setting regular times for meals, exercise and rest can create structure and make it easier for them to go about their day. Keeping commonly used items in designated spots also ensures they always know where to find them. Repetition in daily activities can reinforce safe habits so they always know their next move. When you set them up for success, you can improve their overall well-being.
7. Encourage strength and balance exercises and a healthy diet
Maintaining physical health and a healthy diet enhances a senior’s quality of life, even if they have Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. Quality of life refers to a person’s overall well-being, encompassing physical, emotional and social health.
Improving physical strength and stability can promote the ability of seniors with dementia to engage in enjoyable activities, reduce fall risks and maintain their sense of independence.
Incorporating simple strength and balance exercises can improve coordination and stability.
Even if they make small, consistent efforts, they can yield greater benefits over time. These exercises can include chair yoga, tai chi, walking and swimming. You can even find a Memory Cafe near you, where social events occur, and people living with dementia participate in outings and exercise programs.
Additionally, a healthy diet is vital for brain and body health. For example, research suggests consuming two or more servings of fish every week can promote fewer lesions that can affect cognition and motor function. A balanced diet of omega-3s, fresh vegetables and lean proteins helps seniors stay healthier and fit.
8. Monitor medication side effects
Monitor medication side effectsMedications can be a hidden contributor to fall risks. Many prescribed medications can cause side effects like dizziness, drowsiness or impaired coordination, making falls more likely.
A study by Cureas revealed that 75% of participants taking prescribed psychotropics — like antidepressants, benzodiazepines and antipsychotics — experienced several falls. Most of these incidents occurred among women over 80, and many of the falls were harmful.
You should regularly check medications with health care providers, discussing potential side effects and evaluating whether adjustments are necessary. This step is especially important for those taking multiple prescriptions, as drug interactions can further heighten the chances of falling.
Supporting seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias through fall interventions
Falls are one of the most problematic dangers that seniors with dementia face. Yet, with the right interventions, their risk can greatly decrease. Whether through clutter-free living or daily exercise, there are numerous ways to keep seniors living life safely. Provide the necessary care through a combination of measures. Together, they can protect seniors with dementia and prevent serious harm or injuries.
Beth Rush
Founder and Managing Editor
Body+Mind Magazine
Beth Rush is the mindfulness editor at Body+Mind. She writes about caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease. She also shares tips for coping with c-PTSD, PCOS, and climate anxiety. Her goal is to encourage readers to live their best lives. Subscribe to the Body+Mind Newsletter for more posts by Beth.
