April Falls Month

Falls are a leading cause of injuries, hospitalisations, and fatalities among older Australians, with one in four people over 65 experiencing at least one fall each year. Recognising the urgency of this issue, April Falls Month 2026 focuses on raising awareness about falls, their prevention, and the importance of early intervention.

This year’s theme, “Let’s Talk About Falls — Staying Safe Starts with a Chat,” encourages conversations about the risks of falling and the steps we can take to reduce them. By identifying early warning signs and addressing risk factors, we can prevent falls, improve confidence, and empower older Australians to live safely and independently.

Fall Facts You Should Know

1 in 4 Australians over 65 experiences at least one fall each year.
Falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalisations and the leading cause of death for older Australians (AIHW, 2022).
Many falls are preventable with targeted interventions and lifestyle changes.
Exercise can reduce the risk of falling by 23%, especially activities that improve balance and strength.

What is a Fall?

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines a fall as:
“An event that results in a person coming to rest inadvertently on the ground or floor or other lower level.”

This definition includes slips, trips, loss of balance, or even rolling out of bed, regardless of whether the event was witnessed or caused injury.

A fall without injury is still a fall, and it should be taken seriously.

Key Signs to Watch For

The 2026 campaign encourages Australians to recognise and act on the early signs that someone is at risk of falling. These signs include:

Unsteadiness or difficulty walking.
Feeling dizzy or unwell or having visible injuries like bruising.
Using furniture for support while moving around.
Confusion or changes in cognitive function.
When these signs are noticed, it’s important to start a conversation and take steps to reduce the risk of falling.

How to Prevent Falls

Falls prevention requires a comprehensive approach that includes collaboration between older people, their families, carers, and healthcare providers. Here are the key strategies:

1. Improve Strength and Balance

Regular exercise is essential to reduce falls risk.
Activities that improve strength and balance, such as yoga, tai chi, or strength training, can reduce the risk of falling by 23%.
Adults of all ages should aim for 30–60 minutes of physical activity most days, including exercises that enhance balance and strength.

2. Identify and Address Risk Factors

Use validated falls risk screening tools to assess an individual’s risk of falling.
Develop a personalised falls prevention plan that addresses specific risk factors and barriers, such as fear of falling or lack of confidence.

3. Create a Safe Environment

Make home modifications, such as installing grab bars, improving lighting, and removing tripping hazards.
Ensure that mobility aids, like walkers or canes, are used properly and regularly checked for safety.

4. Seek Professional Support

Involve healthcare professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, podiatrists, and exercise physiologists to design and implement effective falls prevention plans.
Encourage participation in evidence-based exercise programs tailored to older adults.

Get Involved in April Falls Month 2026

Here’s how you can participate in this year’s campaign and help reduce the impact of falls in your community:

Start a Conversation: Use the campaign theme, “Let’s Talk About Falls — Staying Safe Starts with a Chat,” to encourage open discussions about falls prevention.
Host Awareness Events: Organise workshops, seminars, or community events to educate people about falls prevention.
Promote Physical Activity: Encourage older adults to participate in exercise programs that improve strength and balance. Share information about local exercise classes or online resources.
Share Stories and Resources: Use social media to share personal stories, campaign messages, and educational materials. Use hashtags like #AprilFallsMonth #FallsPrevention #StaySafeChat to spread awareness.
Support Aged Care Providers: Advocate for improved policies, procedures, and resources to support falls prevention in aged care settings.

Falls are preventable, and early intervention can save lives. By starting conversations, raising awareness, and promoting effective strategies, we can help older Australians stay safe, active, and independent.

For more information, resources, or to find events near you, visit the official campaign website.