Preventing falls for people with dementia

Written by The Dementia Centre | Apr 21, 2023 6:09:00 AM

Not only do people with dementia have a higher risk of falling, due to mobility, perceptive, emotional and cognitive difficulties, they are also three times more likely to fracture their hip when they fall¹. So, fall prevention for people with dementia is critical.

Some things you can do

Make sure walkways are clear, safe, uncluttered and well-lit
Make sure wayfinding is effective
Make desirable items easy to reach and visible
Encourage well-fitting, non-slip footwear and clothes that are above ankle length
Monitor medication side effects

Being active is key

One of the most effective ways to prevent falls in people with dementia is exercise. Look at introducing balance and strength training, led by a trained professional with experience working with people with dementia. Practices like Tai Chi or yoga have been shown to have cognitive and emotional benefits as well, improving memory, attention, language and executive functions and reducing feelings of anxiety or depression.^{2, 3}

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Preventing falls for people with dementia

Not only do people with dementia have a higher risk of falling, due to mobility, perceptive, emotional and cognitive difficulties, they are also three times more likely to fracture their hip when they fall1. So, fall prevention for people with dementia is critical.

Not only do people with dementia have a higher risk of falling, due to mobility, perceptive, emotional and cognitive difficulties, they are also three times more likely to fracture their hip when they fall¹. So, fall prevention for people with dementia is critical.