Falls, balance & staying independent
Learn why falls deserve a review and how a personalised plan can address balance, strength, medicines and home hazards.
A fall is worth discussing
Speak with your doctor after a fall, even if you feel uninjured. Falls can reflect several issues, including balance or muscle weakness, a medicine effect or another medical problem. Injury, fainting or concerning symptoms may require urgent care.
Look beyond one cause
A falls review can consider medicines, vision, footwear, walking and home hazards. Tell the clinician about dizziness and near-falls as well as actual falls. A medicine review belongs with your doctor or pharmacist; do not stop prescribed medicines yourself.
Exercise with the right support
Appropriate exercise targeting balance and movement can help reduce falls. A physiotherapist or exercise physiologist can help tailor a program to your abilities. Discuss whether supervision, a walking aid or an occupational therapy home assessment would be useful.
Simple home changes may include better lighting, clear walkways and secure rugs. The right changes depend on where and how you move.
Prepare for a review
- Where did the fall happen and what were you doing?
- Did you feel dizzy or lose consciousness?
- What would make you feel more confident moving at home?
Bring your medicines list and the footwear or walking aid you usually use.
Explore related guides
Planning care in Melbourne’s north
For people in Epping, Mill Park, Lalor, Reservoir and surrounding suburbs, Muscle Joint Bone is located at 26 Childs Road, Epping. Ask the team which appointment is appropriate and confirm practitioner availability before booking.
Sources and further reading
Education updated 2 November 2026. Source topics have been rewritten; older source advice is not automatically endorsed. This guide cannot diagnose symptoms or replace individual healthcare advice.
