by Laurel Buck, MPA, SHRM-CP, Program Outreach and Partner Engagement for the Brain Injury Association of Michigan
September’s Falls Prevention Month may be behind us, but the risk of a life-changing fall doesn’t end when the calendar turns to October. A fall can happen in seconds, yet the consequences—especially a traumatic brain injury (TBI)—can last a lifetime.
Maintaining independence is a vital part of overall well-being. Yet falls remain one of the greatest challenges to aging safely, affecting daily mobility, confidence, and quality of life.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls account for nearly half of TBI-related hospitalizations. Adults age 75 and older are impacted most, making up 32% of TBI-related hospitalizations and 28% of TBI-related deaths.
Fall risk often increases with age due to changes in strength, flexibility, vision, hearing, balance, coordination, reaction time, and confidence with movement. Chronic conditions, pain, fatigue, dizziness, and some medications can also affect mobility and awareness, making even routine activities more challenging.
A head injury may also increase the risk of future falls. According to research published by the American Academy of Neurology, even one head injury was associated with a higher fall risk. Age-related changes, head injury–related gait dysfunction and reduced executive functioning may all contribute.
The good news is that practical steps can help reduce fall risk and support safety, independence, and brain health.
- Review Medications: Ask your provider to check prescriptions for side effects such as dizziness, light-headedness, balance changes, or coordination concerns.
- Enhance Balance: Gentle movement, walking, balance exercises, or physical therapy can improve coordination, strength, mobility, and confidence.
- Make Your Home Safe: Clear walkways, remove loose rugs, add non-slip mats, repair uneven surfaces, install grab bars, and improve lighting.
- Schedule Checkups: Keep up with eye and hearing exams and work with a primary care provider to manage health concerns that may increase fall risk.
Resources for Greater Support:
- 2-1-1 can help locate falls-prevention workshops, daily living supports, and home accessibility resources at mi211.org/fall-prevention.
- GetSetUp Michigan offers free virtual classes for balance, core strength, and fitness at getsetup.io/en-US/partner/michigan.
The Life Falls Prevention Planning Toolkit guides individuals and caregivers in creating a personalized fall prevention plan at lifefallprevention.com.
The CDC’s STEADI resources offer checklists and tools for assessing fall risk and home safety at cdc.gov/steadi.
Because falls are closely linked to traumatic brain injuries and can have life-altering consequences, the Brain Injury Association of Michigan was asked to share this vital information with individuals, families, and communities.
Connect with BIAMI: Helpline: 1-800-444-6443; Email: info@biami.org
Website: www.biami.org
Taking small steps today can make a meaningful difference in reducing falls, preserving independence, and protecting the brain for the future.
Sources: Facts About TBI | Traumatic Brain Injury & Concussion | CDC; TBI Data | Traumatic Brain Injury & Concussion | CDC; Associations Between Head Injury and
Subsequent Risk of Falls | Neurology
