These tips will help older adults avoid life-threatening falls

Since bones tend to weaken with age, there's a greater risk of fractures after tripping and falling for older adults. One way to prevent a fall is to remove any tripping hazards in the home. Photo: Mascha Brichta/dpa-tmn

The likelihood of falling – with potentially serious consequences – increases in old age. About 30% of people over 65 fall at least once a year, according to Dr Clemens Becker, a specialist in clinical geriatrics.

Since bones tend to weaken with age, there's a greater risk of fractures after tripping and falling. A hip fracture, for example, can be life-threatening. Below, experts offer tips on fall prevention for older adults.