An international review led by Flinders University has found that supervised exercise programs, vitamin D supplementation, and improved nutrition are among the most effective ways to prevent falls in aged care homes. Published by the Cochrane Collaboration, the study analysed data from 104 clinical trials involving nearly 69,000 residents across 25 countries, making it the most comprehensive investigation of its kind.
Lead author Dr Suzanne Dyer, from the Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute (FHMRI), says the findings provide vital guidance for care providers, policymakers, and families. “Falls are one of the most serious health risks facing older Australians, often leading to broken bones, hospital admissions, and loss of independence,” she explains. The evidence, she adds, shows that interventions must be carefully tailored rather than applied as a one-size-fits-all solution.
Among the most effective measures were structured, supervised exercise programs, particularly when carried out regularly in groups or for more than an hour each week. These benefits extended even to residents living with dementia and other cognitive impairments, provided the exercise was delivered consistently and with staff support.
The study also found that vitamin D supplements reduced falls by improving muscle strength, while nutrition made a significant difference through diets rich in calcium and protein. Increasing dairy servings—such as milk, cheese, and yoghurt—strengthened bones and lowered both falls and fracture rates. Dr Dyer emphasises that “by adding more calcium and protein-rich foods, aged care homes were able to improve residents’ bone health and stability.”
The review further showed that combining personalised exercise plans with medication reviews and environmental assessments, supported by strong staff involvement, achieved the best results. In contrast, programs focused solely on medication management, staff training, or changes to care models did not consistently reduce falls. “We now have strong evidence about what works best,” says Dr Dyer, “and this offers aged care providers a clear roadmap for improving resident safety.”
More information: Suzanne Dyer et al, Interventions for preventing falls in older people in care facilities, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD016064
Journal information: Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Provided by Flinders University
