Viva Vitality: Preventing a fall this fall

By Megan Burland on August 29, 2025.

I recently experienced one of my first memorable falls as an adult. Early this spring, while out jogging, I tripped on uneven pavement. Looking back, I wish I had handled it differently. I jumped up quickly, eager to pretend nothing had happened and to make sure no one had seen me fall.

Someone had seen me and kindly offered a bandage, but I was determined to move along – even though I did need that bandage and a moment to collect myself.

Falls don’t only happen in winter on icy surfaces – they’re a year-round injury prevention issue that affects people of all ages, especially older adults. Luckily, there are steps you can take to prevent falls.

According to Finding Balance, “falls are the leading cause of injury among seniors.”

Finding Balance is an education program and public awareness campaign offering excellent resources to help older adults prevent falls.

Below are some foundational topics to consider, each covered extensively on the Finding Balance website:

– Staying active

– Reviewing how medications, vitamins, and supplements may affect your risk of falling

– Visiting an eye doctor (optometrist or ophthalmologist) annually

– Getting good sleep

– Eating a healthy diet

– Staying well hydrated

– Wearing proper footwear and caring for your feet

– Ensuring your home is free of hazards and equipped with necessary safety devices

– Staying safe while out in the community

Visit findingbalancealberta.ca for more information. You’ll also find a self-assessment quiz to help you determine your risk of falling.

I encourage older adults to speak with trusted health professionals about these topics, as well. The fall season is an excellent time to review these areas in preparation for winter – a season that brings additional environmental hazards like ice and slippery surfaces.

As for my own fall, I wish I had been kinder to myself in that moment – taking time to ensure I was OK, accepting help when it was offered, and reflecting on how to prevent a similar incident in the future.

Falls can happen in an instant, but there are many things we can do to prevent them.

Megan Burland is a health promotion facilitator with Primary Care Alberta

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