As a home visiting nurse I have provided care to thousands of people. One of the most memorable clients I had required me to regularly call her leasing office —Asking them to open the door to her client’s apartment because she had fallen again.
She was 95 years old, living alone, and fiercely independent. She walked with her body bent at the hips — not because she had to, but because she believed it made her feel safer.
“If I’m closer to the ground,” she would say, “I’m less likely to fall.”
But the reality was quite the opposite.
In that posture, her head and shoulders led every step, pulling her forward unnaturally. Her upper body became heavier than her legs could support. She fell
She fell more than once, even after I repeatedly encouraged her to use her walker and stand up straight.
But she wouldn’t.
“I’m not that bad off,” she’d say — refusing the walker out of pride, even as her falls became more frequent.
Why Do Falls Happen?
Falls aren’t always caused by frailty. Sometimes, they’re caused by decisions — decisions rooted in fear, pride, or misunderstanding.
Here are some hidden but common reasons older adults fall:
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Poor posture and body mechanics
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Muscle weakness or deconditioning
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Vision or hearing changes
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Medication side effects
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Unsafe environments at home (rugs, poor lighting, clutter)
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Refusing assistive devices like walkers or canes
Fall Prevention Tips That Work
If you or someone you love is feeling unsteady or has recently fallen, here are eight proactive steps that can help:
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Stand Tall – Keep your head up and shoulders back to reduce forward momentum.
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Strengthen Your Legs – Daily exercises like leg lifts or marching in place make a difference.
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Review Your Medications – Some medications can cause dizziness or fatigue.
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Improve Lighting – Use motion-sensor nightlights in bedrooms and hallways.
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Clear Walkways – Remove throw rugs, electrical cords, and clutter.
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Install Grab Bars – Especially in bathrooms and near beds or stairwells.
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Use Assistive Devices – Canes and walkers are tools of strength, not weakness.
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Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help – Pride should never outweigh your safety.
Final Thoughts
Falls can happen silently and quickly — but so can prevention.
The earlier we make adjustments, the longer we can maintain safety, independence, and dignity.
If you’ve experienced a fall or feel nervous about walking alone, you’re not alone — and there is support available.
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Need Help?
Start by calling your local department of health or visiting Fe.NurseLynx.com to learn more about home care coordination portal. or call Nurselynx at 301-241-7374 nurselynx.com
and speak with a counselor.
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