Fall Prevention & Fall Risk Management for Older Adults in Canada

If you’re worried about a parent falling at home, you’re not alone.

In Canada, about 20–30% of seniors experience at least one fall each year, and falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations among older adults. Many result in hip fractures, traumatic brain injuries, or a loss of independence. 

The good news: most falls can be prevented. ComForCare Canada’s Gaitway fall risk management program helps families identify risks early, make the home safer, and support older adults to stay active and independent for as long as possible.

We’ll work with you, your loved one, and their healthcare providers to create a practical, Canadian-focused fall prevention plan—so you don’t have to do this alone.

How to Reduce Your Risk

As an adult child or family caregiver, there’s a lot you can do to help a parent stay safe at home. Talk with their family doctor, nurse practitioner, or specialist about:

• Medications: Some prescriptions or combinations can cause dizziness or low blood pressure. Ask if any medications increase fall risk or can be adjusted.
• Assistive devices: A cane, walker, grab bars, or raised toilet seat can make a big difference—if they’re fitted properly and used consistently.
• Vision and hearing checks: Poor vision and hearing can make it easier to trip or misjudge steps and curbs.
• Referrals to physiotherapy or occupational therapy: These professionals can recommend exercises to build strength and balance, and suggest home modifications.
• Fall prevention programs: Ask about evidence-based programs in your province and consider ComForCare’s Gaitway and Matter of Balance programs for added support.

At home, our team can help you identify and reduce common hazards—like loose rugs, cluttered walkways, poor lighting, slippery bathroom surfaces, or winter ice near entryways.

Common Risk Factors for Falls in Older Adults

Every person is different, but some factors make falls more likely. Your parent may be at higher risk if they:

• Have muscle weakness, balance problems, or arthritis
• Live with dementia, Parkinson’s disease, or another neurological condition
• Take multiple medications, especially those for sleep, anxiety, pain, or blood pressure
• Have low vision or hearing loss
• Have had a fall in the last 12 months
• Use a cane or walker but don’t always use it correctly
• Live alone or have limited support nearby
• Face winter hazards such as ice, snow, and slippery steps outside their home

Our Gaitway fall risk screening helps identify which of these apply to your loved one and what you can do about them.

Gaitway: ComForCare’s Comprehensive Approach to Managing Fall Risk

The goal of the Gaitway program is to:

• Minimize the risk of falls among older adults living at home
• Empower you to understand factors that can lead to an increased risk of falling, as well as tools you can use to reduce your risk
• Educate direct care workers who are helping clients manage their health

During a home safety evaluation, a trained professional will look at things such as:

• Are rugs and runners slip-resistant?
• Is there torn or loose carpeting?
• Is there adequate lighting? 

Schedule a home evaluation:

Our Fall Prevention Approach

Our Fall Risk Screening tools are based on best practices, including resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and aligned with Canadian fall prevention guidelines. 

We combine these tools with the expertise of a practicing physical therapist who specializes in exercise programs for older adults. The result is a practical, easy-to-follow plan for your family.

Here’s what you can expect:

Ongoing Support & Caregiver Education
If you choose, ComForCare caregivers can help your loved one follow the plan, attend appointments, and stay active, while keeping you updated on any changes or concerns.

Fall Risk Screening
We review your loved one’s health history, medications, mobility, and any recent falls to understand their personal risk factors.

Home Safety Assessment
Our team walks through the home (or retirement residence) to identify environmental hazards and opportunities to improve safety.

Personalized Fall Prevention Plan
We recommend targeted interventions—such as exercises, equipment, home modifications, or changes to routines—and explain them in plain language for you and your parent.

Download your FREE Gaitway guide to help you manage your fall risk today.

Each office is independently owned and operated
and is an equal opportunity employer.