My Mum or Dad Keeps Falling – When Should I Be Worried?

One fall does not always mean there is a serious problem, but repeated falls or a clear change in mobility deserve attention. Falls can have several contributing causes, so it is important not to assume that weakness is the only explanation.

When falls become more concerning

Seek assessment if falls are becoming more frequent, appear unexplained, are associated with dizziness or loss of consciousness, or are accompanied by a rapid decline in walking or everyday function.

Look for physical changes

Reduced leg strength, poorer balance, slower walking, difficulty turning and increasing reliance on furniture can all contribute to falls risk.

Other factors matter too

Medication, vision, blood-pressure changes, dizziness, neurological conditions, footwear and the home environment can also play a role. A broader medical review may therefore be needed.

What physiotherapy can assess

A physiotherapist can assess walking, standing balance, leg strength, turning, sit-to-stand, stairs and use of walking aids, then address physical limitations with appropriate exercise.

Do not wait for another serious fall

If a parent is clearly becoming less steady or has fallen several times, it is reasonable to seek assessment before a major injury occurs.

Urgent symptoms

A fall associated with significant head injury, severe pain, inability to bear weight, sudden weakness, facial or speech changes, severe new dizziness or loss of consciousness requires urgent medical assessment.