Between 2012 and 2021, fall-related death rates among older adults increased 41 percent nationwide. In that timeframe, Maine showed one of the biggest rises, with 81 fatal falls per 100,000 people.
As of June 2025, Bangor health-care facilities and nursing homes had received 225 calls to lift patients who didn't need an ambulance – 82 percent of the calls received during 2024. In response, the fees for assistance rose from $25 to $125 (based on the number of calls) to $550.
The most common injuries from falls are hip fractures and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). In the U.S., each year, nearly 319,000 older people are hospitalized for hip fractures.
Update: A recent article on point ran in the Central Maine Morning Sentinel (subscription required): More older Mainers are falling and dying. Here's what you need to know
Common Causes of Falls – and Where They Occur Most
A review of 2015 data found that in the U.S., most fall-related emergency room visits among older adults occurred at home. Men had more accidents outside (38 percent) compared to women (28 percent). Inside, the most common places were in the bedroom, the bathroom, and on stairs.
Other common causes:
- Icy weather conditions
- Sports activities (pickleball, skiing, etc.)
- Occupational hazards
In Maine, 25 percent of fatal slips, trips, and falls happened at work; structures and surfaces were among the contributing factors.
The Greatest Risk Factors for Falls
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control reports a combination of factors cause many falls; the more risk factors, the higher the probability, which include:
- Lower body weakness
- Trouble with walking and balance
- Low vitamin D levels, which can weaken bones and muscle density
- Vision problems (for example, progressive lenses can affect depth perception)
- Foot pain or poor footwear
- A prior brain injury
- Home hazards like broken or uneven steps, throw rugs, or clutter
- Certain medications: Some prescription and non-prescription drugs can increase dizziness or weakness (e.g., sedatives, cold remedies, antihypertensives, antidepressants)
If you or a loved one take medications that could increase the risk for falls, ask a pharmacist or medical provider to review them.
Assessing fall risks:
- The National Council on Aging Falls Free CheckUp® self-test can help you identify risks.
- Quick checks:
- Can you stand from a chair without using your hands?
- Do you feel unsteady when walking?
- Have you tripped recently?
If yes, consider a prevention risk screen by a health provider or physical therapist.
When you talk to a loved one about fall prevention, stay calm and focus on safety and independence. Potential conversation starters: “Let's try some simple balance exercises together,” or “Would you consider a home safety check?
How to Prevent Falls
- Follow the CDC's Four Things You Can Do to Prevent Falls
- Assess how to prepare for aging in place safely at home
- If applicable, follow workplace safety standards; some emphasize maintaining "three points of contact”: either two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand on a ladder, vehicle, or structure while climbing or descending.
- Keep active: tai chi, yoga, dance, or strength training improve balance and coordination. (Fear of falling often leads to less activity and a higher fall risk.) Community programs like “A Matter of Balance” help boost confidence and skills.
- Prepare for winter: learn how to avoid falling on ice.
Fall Prevention Aids
- Products and tools: A physical therapist can recommend the right device or footwear and teach safe use. In icy conditions, ski poles, "ICEBUG" (studded) footwear, or ice cleats aid stability. When you're on the road, keep sand in your car to add traction on slippery surfaces. Check if your city or town offers sand bucket delivery.
- Detection and alert systems: Organizations like the National Council on Aging offer information on medical alert devices, technology solutions, and services.
What Should I Do Right Away if Someone Falls?
If the person is injured or can't get up, call for help or 911. If they can get up, they should do so slowly and rest. Watch for pain, swelling, weakness, or confusion.
Tell a doctor -- even if there are no symptoms -- because sometimes the injuries don't always cause noticeable signs right away.
The symptoms from head trauma can be delayed; sleepiness after a head injury is a sign medical attention is needed. Public reports -- including actor-comedian Bob Saget’s accidental injuries -- show why a brain injury can be serious enough that, when left untreated, it can be fatal.
How Long-Term Care and Estate Planning Keep You Prepared
A major fall can cause temporary or permanent physical or mental changes. Long-term care and estate planning help answer “how to pay and who will decide” through financial powers of attorney, a living will, and care plans. If you're caring for minor children, guardianship decisions can also be crucial.
To review or set up a long-term care or estate plan, contact us online or call (207) 377-3966.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes and doesn't constitute medical advice. For health concerns, see a licensed health care provider.
