The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that 1 in 4 adults has fallen, with 1 in 5 of these incidents resulting in a serious injury, such as a broken bone or traumatic brain injury.

And, while falls are the seventh-leading cause of death among older adults, there is some good news, said Melinda O’Bier, a physical therapist assistant and certified falls prevention specialist at Aquacare Physical Therapy.

Tumbles are preventable.

Though 13% of fall victims die within the first three months of their event — with the rate rising to 24% within one year — steps can be taken to reduce the risk in the older population.

There are several ways individuals can reduce falls, Ms. O’Bier said, including regular exercise, setting up handrails in hallways and bathrooms, removing area rugs, cleaning up spills right away, installing bright lights in dark areas, placing nonslip mats in bathrooms and bedrooms, and setting up medical alert devices.

Additionally, medications should be regularly monitored, as many drugs can cause dizziness, confusion, weakness and shakiness. More than 50% of adults take one or more psychoactive medications that are known to increase risk of falls, she said.

These events can be devastating to those impacted, so it’s important to take proactive steps to reduce the risk, Ms. O’Bier adds. By focusing on prevention and raising awareness, older adults can be kept safe, healthy and at home.

In addition, when it comes to talking about a fall, it is even less common for an older person to report it, unless their health care provider asks.

Many consider falls to be a normal part of aging, or they fear having a fall may lead to loss of their independence.

However, according to Ms. O’Bier, while many of these incidents can be prevented by making changes in the home, other conversations need to be had with family members and with doctors, including talking about how medications might affect balance, any changes in vision, any sort of vitamin deficiency and what to look for in supportive footwear.

In addition to these changes at home, physical therapy can improve strength and balance in a supportive and safe environment.

To learn more, visit aquacarephysicaltherapy.com.