Fall Prevention Strategies for People Living with Dementia-Related Illnesses

Falls are one of the most common—and preventable—risks for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related illnesses. In this episode, Lisa dives into the critical topic of fall prevention and how caregivers can create safer, more supportive environments for their loved ones. Drawing insights from the Fall Prevention Foundation, Lisa explores why people with dementia are more prone to falls, what environmental changes can make the biggest impact, and how physical health, medication management, and cognitive support all play vital roles in maintaining safety and independence. Listeners will gain practical, real-world strategies to reduce fall risk—covering everything from home setup and lighting to daily routines, balance exercises, and communication techniques that keep those living with dementia calm and confident. Key Takeaways: Why dementia increases fall risk and what caregivers can do about it Simple home modifications that dramatically reduce hazards How exercise, balance, and physical therapy support mobility and confidence The importance of reviewing medications regularly Cognitive and behavioral strategies to guide safe movement How to design a personalized fall-prevention plan that evolves with disease progression Quote from Lisa: “Fall prevention isn’t just about safety—it’s about preserving dignity and independence for the person living with dementia.” Resource Mentioned: This episode was inspired by the article “Fall Prevention Strategies for Dementia Patients: A Comprehensive Approach to Safety and Support” published by the Fall Prevention FoundationListen now to learn how to make the home—and the caregiving journey—safer, calmer, and more compassionate About the Host:Author Lisa Skinner is a behavioral specialist with expertise in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia. In her 30+year career working with family members and caregivers, Lisa has taught them how to successfully navigate the many challenges that accompany this heartbreaking disease. Lisa is both a Certified Dementia Practitioner and is also a certified dementia care trainer through the Alzheimer’s Association. She also holds a degree in Human Behavior.Her latest book, “Truth, Lies & Alzheimer’s – Its Secret Faces” continues Lisa’s quest of working with dementia-related illnesses and teaching families and caregivers how to better understand the daunting challenges of brain disease. Her #1 Best-seller book “Not All Who Wander Need Be Lost,” was written at their urging. As someone who has had eight family members diagnosed with dementia, Lisa Skinner has found her calling in helping others through the struggle so they can have a better-quality relationship with their loved ones through education and through her workshops on counter-intuitive solutions and tools to help people effectively manage the symptoms of brain disease. Lisa Skinner has appeared on many national and regional media broadcasts. Lisa helps explain behaviors caused by dementia, encourages those who feel burdened, and gives practical advice for how to respond.So many people today are heavily impacted by Alzheimer's disease and related dementia. The Alzheimer's Association and the World Health Organization have projected that the number of people who will develop Alzheimer's disease by the year 2050 worldwide will triple if a treatment or cure is not found. Society is not prepared to care for the projected increase of people who will develop this devastating disease. In her 30 years of working with family members and caregivers who suffer from dementia, Lisa has recognized how little people really understand the complexities of what living with this disease is really like. For Lisa, it starts with knowledge, education, and training.Thanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcasts reviewRatings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.