Why Falls Are More Common as We Age — and What You Can Do About It

Why do we risk falls as we age?

As we grow older, our bodies naturally undergo changes that can increase the risk of falls. It’s not just about getting older—it’s about how our balance, muscle strength, vision, and reaction time change over time.

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury in older adults in Canada, often leading to fractures, loss of independence, and fear of falling again. But the good news is that falls are not inevitable. By understanding why they happen, we can take steps to prevent them.

Aging can bring reduced muscle mass and flexibility, joint stiffness, slower reflexes, and inner ear changes—all of which impact balance. Medications for blood pressure or sleep can also cause dizziness or lightheadedness. Even subtle postural changes from years of sitting or improper footwear can throw the body’s center of gravity off balance.

Prevention starts with awareness.

Simple steps such as wearing supportive shoes, ensuring proper lighting at home, removing tripping hazards, and doing balance exercises like yoga or tai chi can make a world of difference.

Chiropractic plays an important role, too. Regular adjustments help maintain proper spinal alignment, ensuring that your nervous system can communicate clearly with your muscles and joints. When your body is balanced, your coordination improves—and so does your confidence in movement.

Falls don’t have to be part of aging. With proactive care, strength training, and regular chiropractic visits, you can maintain stability, independence, and quality of life well into your later years.