Fall Prevention Guide for Older Adults | 360 Orthopedics

Have you ever tripped on a rug, felt unsteady walking in dim lighting, or worried about an older loved one taking a fall? You’re not alone. One in four Americans aged 65 and older experiences a fall each year, and many of these lead to serious injuries according to the CDC.

The good news? Falling doesn’t have to be a normal part of aging. This Fall Prevention Week (September 22–26, 2025) is the perfect time to learn how to reduce risks, build strength, and move with confidence—whether you’re an older adult or caring for someone you love.

What Is Fall Prevention Week—and Why Does It Matter?

Promoted by the National Council on Aging and the Falls Free® Initiative, Fall Prevention Week raises awareness of how to keep older adults safe and independent learn more from NCOA. It’s a time for communities nationwide to spotlight practical steps and local support available to reduce fall risk and encourage confident movement.

At 360 Orthopedics, we’re proud to support that effort right here in Sarasota, Venice, and Lakewood Ranch by helping patients strengthen their balance, stay active, and recover confidently from injuries.

The Facts: Understanding the Risk

• 1 in 4 older adults fall each year, and over a third of those falls cause injury requiring treatment CDC.
• Emergency departments see 3 to 3.5 million older adults annually due to fall-related injuries CDC.
• In 2023, more than 41,000 older Americans died from fall-related causes, with fatalities steadily increasing over the past two decades National Safety Council.
• Importantly, most falls are preventable through awareness, intervention, and care ACL.

Prevention Strategies to Keep You Steady

1. Build Strength & Balance with Movement

Exercises like resistance training, balance routines, or Tai Chi lower fall risk. The USPSTF recommends multi-component programs (balance + strength). Our physical therapy team helps build core stability, refine walking mechanics, and boost confidence.

2. Make Your Home Safer

Simple changes like adding grab bars, improving lighting, and removing rugs or clutter can make a big difference CDC tips. Our occupational therapy team can recommend strategies and tools to support safer movement in daily routines, and when appropriate, assistive devices may also be recommended.

3. Use Assistive Support When Needed

Proper equipment—like canes, walkers, or orthotic footwear—can promote steadier mobility. Our experts include Dr. Jemaar Graham, DPM, who provides podiatric care and orthotic guidance, and Dr. Michael Clare, MD, who treats foot and ankle injuries surgically when needed.

4. Treat Injuries Promptly

Even minor sprains or fractures can weaken your balance if left untreated. Our orthopedic foot and ankle team provides surgical and nonsurgical care to support full recovery and reduce the risk of future falls.

5. Ask About Pain or Fall Risk Factors

Medications, vision changes, or chronic joint pain can increase your risk of falling. Our pain management specialists, Dr. Ashot Kotcharian, MD, Dr. Douglas Constant, MD, and Dr. Justin Raye, MD, offer personalized treatment for joint and spine-related pain to help improve stability and mobility.

360 Orthopedics Services That Support Fall Prevention

At our clinics in Sarasota, Venice, and Lakewood Ranch, we provide care designed to help you stay steady and secure:

• Physical and occupational therapy focused on balance and daily safety
• Orthopedic evaluation and treatment for sprains, fractures, and joint pain
• Pain management and rehabilitation support
• Device assessments and recommendations for safer mobility

Whether you're recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or wanting to get stronger, our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can exercise really reduce fall risk?
Yes—targeted strength and balance programs have been shown to cut fall risk significantly USPSTF.

Q: Are falls an unavoidable part of aging?
Not at all—most falls are preventable through proactive training, environment changes, and early treatment NCOA.

Q: What should I do if I’ve already had a fall?
A quick evaluation is key. Whether it’s muscles, joints, or balance, our team can develop a recovery plan to help prevent repeat falls.

Q: How do I get started?
Call any of our locations in Sarasota, Venice, or Lakewood Ranch or visit our website to schedule an evaluation.