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King County Washington home

Fall prevention resources and education

Whether you are looking for information for yourself, a family member, or your organization, these resources can help you take practical steps to prevent falls, stay active and support healthy, independent living.

Resources are available in multiple languages through the EMS Division and our community partners and organizations.

6 steps to help prevent falls

Falls are not a normal part of aging, and many falls can be prevented. Learn six practical steps you can take to reduce your risk of falls, improve safety, increase activity, and enhance independence.

  • 1. Talk with your healthcare provider

    Discuss your fall risks and ways to stay safe and independent.

  • 2. Exercise to stay mobile

    Participate in activities that improve strength, balance, flexibility, and mobility.

    A white line drawing of a woman in a yoga pose is centered within a dark teal circle with a black outline. The woman is depicted in a warrior II pose, with her arms extended horizontally to her sides, her left leg bent and forward, and her right leg extended back. She is wearing athletic attire, including a sports bra and shorts. The drawing is simple and stylized, with clean lines and no shading. The background is a solid, flat color.

  • 3. Make your home safer

    A white outline of a person is depicted climbing a set of stairs, all within a teal-colored circle with a black border. The person is stylized with a circular head and a simple body, arms, and legs, suggesting movement upwards. The stairs are also rendered in a minimalist white outline, with each step clearly defined. The background is a solid teal color, creating a clean and graphic aesthetic.

    Identify and reduce hazards that could increase your risk of falling.

  • 4. Review your medications

    Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist to review your medications and discuss side effects that may increase your risks of falling.

    A white outline icon of a pill bottle and two pills is centered within a dark teal circle with a black outline. The pill bottle is on the left side of the circle, and it is depicted with a cap that has vertical lines, a rectangular body with a rounded bottom, and a square label area. To the right of the bottle, there is a capsule-shaped pill with a line down the middle, and a round pill with a line across it. The overall composition is simple and graphic, with a clean, minimalist aesthetic.

  • 5. Have your vision and hearing checked

    A minimalist, flat design icon is presented within a dark teal circle with a black outline. The circle is bisected vertically by a thin white line. On the left side of the line, a white outline of an eye is depicted, featuring concentric circles for the iris and pupil. On the right side of the line, a white outline of an ear is shown, with its characteristic curves and inner details. The overall composition is simple and symbolic, representing the senses of sight and hearing.

    Do this annually and as changes occur.

  • 6. Talk with your family

    Share your concerns about falling with friends, family, and caregivers for support when needed.

    A white outline of a family of four is centered within a dark teal circle with a black border. The family consists of two adults and two children. The adult figures are taller and stand side-by-side, holding hands. The child figures are smaller and stand on either side of the adults, each holding the hand of the adult closest to them. The figures are stylized with simple, rounded shapes, representing heads, torsos, and legs. The overall composition is clean and iconic, conveying a sense of unity and togetherness.

Fall Prevention programs and services

Connect with local programs and services that can help you stay active, improve balance and strength, reduce fall risks, and remain independent.

State-wide and national resources