Fall prevention in everyday life: How to specifically prevent falls – and what really matters in an emergency

A wrong step in the hallway, a moment of inattention in the garden, or a wet spot in the bathroom – and suddenly everything is different. A fall can happen quickly, especially in old age. What many underestimate: One in three people over 65 falls at least once a year. The consequences range from painful bruises to severe bone fractures or the permanent loss of independence. But it doesn't have to be this way.

With targeted fall prevention, many accidents can be avoided – and even if something does happen, it's reassuring to know that help is immediately available. In this article, we show you how to make your daily life safe, what role exercise plays – and how modern technology like the Gardia emergency wristband can protect your life in an emergency.

Falls are among the most common causes of accidents in older age. According to the Robert Koch Institute, about one in three people over 65 fall at least once a year – among people over 80, it is almost one in two. The physical consequences such as bone fractures, head injuries, or lengthy hospital stays are severe. However, the psychological effects often seem even stronger: many people develop fears after a fall, lose trust in their own bodies, and withdraw from social life.

Falls are particularly dangerous when those affected are alone and can no longer get up or call for help independently. This can lead to a so-called lying trauma: even after a few hours lying motionless on the floor, circulatory problems, hypothermia, pressure sores, or even organ failure can occur. The longer someone remains helpless, the higher the risk of severe health damage – often resulting in long-term care dependency.

The risk of requiring permanent support due to a fall therefore increases significantly. That is why it is so important to take preventive measures early – through exercise, a safe living environment, and, if necessary, assistive technology.

Falls rarely happen by chance. Usually, several factors work together. The most common include:

• Declining balance or muscle strength
• Dizziness due to medication or circulatory problems
• Poor lighting or tripping hazards in the home
• Unsuitable footwear or slippery floors
• Unsafe walkways, stairs, or wet conditions outdoors

The good news: Many of these risks can be actively reduced. Those who stay active regularly prevent muscle loss and strengthen their coordination. Reviewing medications, removing rug edges, or installing a grab bar in the bathroom can also make a big difference.

Targeted exercises help to improve balance, strengthen muscles, and regain confidence in your own body. Here are three simple but effective exercises that you can easily do at home:

1. Heel Raises at the Chair Back
Stand behind a sturdy chair and hold onto the backrest. Lift both heels simultaneously, stand on your toes for a moment, then slowly lower your heels again.
Effect: Strengthens the calves and improves stability.

2. Single-Leg Stand
Stand at the edge of a table or by the sink. Slightly lift one leg and hold the position for as long as possible. Then switch legs.
Effect: Promotes balance and core tension.

3. Side Leg Raises
Stand up straight and hold on if necessary. Lift one leg sideways away from your body without leaning to the side. Lower it slowly. Repeat with the other leg.
Effect: Strengthens hip muscles and improves stability.

Despite all precautions, falls cannot be entirely avoided. This makes preparedness even more crucial. The Gardia emergency wristband was developed precisely for this purpose: It automatically detects falls – even when the affected person can no longer actively call for help. An emergency call is immediately sent via the integrated mobile connection to the professional 24/7 emergency call center and/or via the My Gardia App to up to six stored emergency contacts. Within seconds, a response is received, and if necessary, targeted help is dispatched – directly to the specified address.

The Gardia emergency wristband functions completely independently of a smartphone or Wi-Fi. It is discreet, easy to use, and accompanies you everywhere – whether on a walk, in the garden, or at home. For our customers and their relatives, this means a reassuring feeling of security without losing their independence.

You can see exactly how it works in the following video:

Falls are one of the biggest risks in old age – but they are not an inevitable fate. Those who stay active, adapt their surroundings, and rely on trustworthy help in an emergency live more safely and independently. The Gardia emergency wristband is an important component in fall prevention – as a silent companion that is there when it matters most.