The Hidden Danger of Falls After 55 (and How to Protect Yourself)

Today, I want to share something that’s both eye-opening and incredibly important for anyone 55 or older — or for those who love someone in that age group.

Here’s the fact that stopped me in my tracks: 42% of people age 55 and older who experience a fall will pass away due to injuries from that fall.

Let that sink in for a moment. Almost half.

Now, I don’t share this to scare you, but to empower you. Because the truth is, many falls are preventable — and there are steps we can take today to lower the risks and keep you, or the people you love, safer and stronger.

Why Falls Are So Dangerous After 55

Falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among older adults. But why are they so devastating as we age?

Here are a few reasons:

1. Weakened bones – Conditions like osteoporosis make fractures more likely. A simple fall can mean a broken hip, which is one of the toughest injuries to recover from.
2. Slower healing – As we age, our bodies don’t bounce back as quickly. What might have been a minor injury in our 30s can take weeks or months in our 60s.
3. Complications – Extended bed rest from injuries increases the risk of pneumonia, blood clots, and muscle loss.
4. Loss of independence – Beyond the physical injuries, a fall can mean losing mobility, confidence, and sometimes even the ability to live independently.

The danger is real, but so are the solutions.

Why Do Falls Happen?

Here’s the good news: falls are not inevitable. They usually happen because of specific challenges our bodies face as we age:

• Balance declines – Your inner ear and nervous system help keep you steady, but if they’re not working at full capacity, you wobble more easily.
• Muscle weakness and stiffness – When leg and core muscles aren’t strong enough, or joints don’t move freely, stability decreases.
• Slower reaction times – The nervous system doesn’t process information as quickly, so the body is slower to catch itself.
• Vision and sensory changes – Poor depth perception, decreased vision, or changes in the inner ear can all make navigating daily life harder.

But here’s the key: each of these areas can be improved.

How Chiropractic Care Helps with Fall Prevention

You might be wondering: What does chiropractic care have to do with fall prevention?

A lot more than most people realize. Chiropractic care focuses on the spine and nervous system, which play a major role in balance, coordination, and movement. Here’s how:

• Better Balance and Posture
  When the spine is aligned, your body moves more naturally and evenly. Good posture makes it easier to stay upright and reduces your risk of stumbling.
• Increased Mobility and Flexibility
  Adjustments keep joints moving the way they’re designed to. Stiff hips, knees, or ankles are a recipe for falls. Chiropractic care helps keep you flexible and mobile.
• Faster Reflexes Through a Healthy Nervous System
  Your brain and body communicate through your nervous system. When it’s functioning at its best, your reflexes are quicker — and those split seconds can mean catching yourself instead of hitting the floor.
• Pain Reduction = More Movement
  Pain often keeps people from staying active. Chiropractic care helps reduce pain so you can exercise, strengthen muscles, and build balance — all essential to preventing falls.

At Care More Chiropractic, we see patients light up when they realize they can move more freely, bend with ease, and feel steady again. That’s the kind of freedom that helps prevent falls before they happen.

Prevention Starts at Home

While chiropractic care is powerful, it works best alongside simple home strategies. Here are a few easy, practical steps to reduce fall risks:

• Clear the clutter – Keep floors free of cords, rugs, and other trip hazards.
• Light the way – Install nightlights in hallways and bathrooms.
• Add support – Grab bars in bathrooms and handrails on stairs are game-changers.
• Choose shoes wisely – Supportive, non-slip shoes indoors and out make a big difference.
• Keep moving – Walking, light yoga, tai chi, and gentle strength training all build balance and confidence.

These changes may sound small, but together they create a much safer environment.

The Power of Strength and Balance

Strength and balance training are two of the best “medicines” against falls. When your legs, hips, and core are strong, and your balance is trained, your body can adapt quickly if you trip.

Even 10–15 minutes a day of exercises like:

• Standing on one leg
• Heel-to-toe walking
• Light squats or sit-to-stands
• Gentle yoga poses

…can drastically lower your risk of falling.

Pair that with chiropractic adjustments that keep your joints mobile and your nervous system sharp, and you’ve got a winning combination.

Don’t Wait Until After a Fall

Here’s the truth: once someone falls, they often become fearful, less active, and more cautious. That loss of confidence can actually increase the risk of falling again.

That’s why the best time to take action is before a fall happens. Prevention is always easier than recovery.

Let’s Keep You Moving Safely

If you or someone you love is over 55, I encourage you to take fall prevention seriously. Make small changes at home. Stay active. And don’t forget about the role your spine and nervous system play in keeping you steady and strong.

At Care More Chiropractic, we’re here to help you move better, feel stronger, and age with confidence.

👉 Call or text our office today to schedule an appointment and find out how we can help you or your loved ones stay safe and active.

👉 And please share this blog with someone who needs it. You never know whose life you might impact with this information.

Because when you care more for your health today, you can do more of what you love tomorrow. 💜

— Dr. Kristen