Avoiding falls in hospital
Hospitals are unfamiliar places and this can be a challenge when you are also unwell or injured.
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Did you know that every year one in three people over the age of 65 have a fall?
Falls can lead to serious injuries, including fractures, head injuries and traumatic brain injuries, potentially resulting in long-term disabilities or even death.
Every day in South Australia, about 50 older people are admitted to a public hospital after a fall at home or in the community.
Falls are also common in hospitals and other health services, where the environment is very different from home and people are unwell or injured.
In 2024, falls made up 15% of the reported incidents affecting people admitted to SA Health hospitals and health services for other reasons.
The chance of having a fall increases with age, but falls can be prevented and don’t have to be an inevitable part of ageing.
New mothers, babies and children are also at risk of falling.
Find out more on the pages below.
Contact
Department for Health and Wellbeing Safety and Quality Unit
Telephone: (08) 8226 2567
Email: Health.DHWClinicalGovernanceEnquiries@sa.gov.au
