Alzheimer’s Disease and Fall Risk: What You Need to Know
According to the National Library of Medicine, people with Alzheimer’s Disease are twice as likely to fall than those without it.1 Falls can reduce independence, impact quality of life, and in some cases, cause serious injuries. It is important to learn about risks and what we can do to help minimize them.
Why are Falls More Common in Individuals with Alzheimer’s?
- Cognitive Decline: People with Alzheimer's Disease suffer from memory loss and poor judgement, which make it harder to avoid hazards.
- Balance and Muscle Weakness: Changes in gait and balance are a common symptom of Alzheimer’s, particularly as the disease progresses. These deficits can contribute to difficulty walking and balancing, which can ultimately lead to falls.2 In addition, Alzheimer's Disease affects coordination and physical strength.
- Vision Issues: Trouble judging depth and distance leads to missteps.
- Medication Side Effects: Some drugs prescribed for Alzheimer's Disease may cause dizziness or drowsiness.
- Early Risk: Falls can occur even before symptoms of Alzheimer’s are obvious or before Alzheimer's Disease is diagnosed.
What are the Consequences?
- Injuries: Fractures, head trauma, and loss of mobility.
- Fear of Falling: Leads to inactivity, isolation, and further decline.
- Stress for Caregivers: Increased responsibilities and emotional strain.
- Long-Term Impact: Hospital stays or permanent care placement.
How to Help Prevent Falls
Recognizing the connection between cognitive decline and physical vulnerability is the first step in preventing injuries and maintaining independence.
Remember to see your medical provider regularly. They can help recognize early signs and help determine if an individual has Alzheimer's Disease and increased risk of falls.
If an individual is diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease, caregivers, medical professionals, and family members can work together to:
- Improve home safety
- Monitor medication side effects
- Encourage safe mobility practices
- Engage in physical therapy and balance exercises
By staying informed and proactive, we can help reduce the risk of falls and improve the overall quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease.
CenterLight Healthcare PACE 致力於提供準確的健康相關資訊，以協助個人好好生活、保持健康，並做出明智的健康照護決策。本資料中的資訊嚴格來說是教育性的。我們建議使用者向其醫療提供者諮詢有關其護理的事宜。
This blog post is written by Tatyana Brisman, PT, Regional Rehabilitation Manager at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.
資料來源：
1 Falls and Alzheimer's Disease, National Library of Medicine
2 The Correlation Between Alzheimer's and Frequent Falls, Altoida
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Updated May 7, 2025