By the Numbers

1 in 4

adults 65+ falls at least once a year

3M

ER visits each year from older-adult falls

up to 39%

fewer falls with the right exercise program

A fall also roughly doubles your risk of falling again — which is exactly why addressing balance early matters.

Common Risk Factors

  • Lower-body weakness, especially in the hips and ankles

  • Balance or gait changes, including from a prior fall

  • Vision changes and certain medications

  • Vitamin D deficiency and foot pain

  • Home hazards — loose rugs, poor lighting, clutter, uneven steps

Why Balance Training Works

The evidence: exercise programs overall cut fall rates by about 21% — but programs that specifically challenge balance and total 3+ hours a week produce closer to a 39% reduction. Walking alone doesn't move the needle; balance has to be trained on purpose.

A Home Safety Checklist

Floors & Stairs

  • Remove throw rugs, or secure them with non-slip backing

  • Keep walkways clear of cords, boxes, and clutter

  • Add handrails on both sides of every staircase

  • Add non-slip strips to bare wood or tile steps

Bathroom & Lighting

  • Install grab bars near the toilet and inside the tub or shower

  • Use a non-slip mat in the tub or shower

  • Add nightlights along the path from bed to bathroom

  • Make sure every stairwell is well lit, with switches at both ends

How We Help

  1. Assess your specific risk — strength, balance, gait, and home environment.

  2. Build lower-body strength — the foundation for stable, confident movement.

  3. Progressively challenge balance — narrow stances, uneven surfaces, and dual-tasking, advanced as you improve.

  4. Address the whole picture — vision, footwear, and home safety recommendations alongside your exercise program.

Bottom line: A structured, progressively challenging balance program is one of the most effective tools we have for keeping you steady, independent, and confident on your feet.