Falls are one of the most common and worrying challenges for people living with Parkinson’s. Many people, and families, ask the same important question:

“What can I do to reduce the risk of falling?”

The good news is that falls are not inevitable and there are clear, evidence-based strategies that can help.

Why are falls more common in Parkinson’s?

Parkinson’s can affect:

• Balance and posture
• Walking pattern
• Reaction time
• Freezing of gait (feet feeling “stuck”)
• Thinking speed and concentration

Medication helps some symptoms, but not all movement problems respond to medication alone. That’s why therapy plays such an important role.

It’s not just about exercise

Exercise is important, but research now shows that exercise on its own is often not enough, especially if you fall often or have more advanced Parkinson’s.

A recent Australian study looked at a combined approach using physiotherapy and occupational therapy together, rather than focusing on exercise alone (Allen et al, 2025). In their study, the goal wasn’t to walk faster, it was to move more safely.

What helps reduce falls?

Making your home safer

An occupational therapist can help identify fall risks at home, such as loose rugs, poor lighting, cluttered walkways and unsafe bathroom set ups. Small changes can make a big difference.

Targeted exercise

A physiotherapist can design exercises to improve balance, strengthen your legs, practise safer movement and reduce freezing episodes. Exercises should be matched to your ability and adjusted if thinking or memory changes make things trickier.

Learning safer ways to move

This may be one of the most important (and overlooked) strategies.

Therapists can help you practise:

• Slowing movements down
• Turning safely
• Stopping before changing direction
• Focusing on one task at a time
• Using simple reminders like “Stop. Think. Move safely.”

Over time, these strategies can become habits.

Involving family or carers

When needed, family members can also help remind you of safer movement strategies, support exercises and assist with home safety changes. Importantly, research shows this approach does not increase carer stress when done properly.

Does this approach actually work?

In the study:

• Most people improved how safely they moved
• Balance improved
• Falls were almost cut in half in the 6 months after therapy finished
• The program was safe, even for people with more advanced Parkinson’s

That’s very encouraging.

How can Advance Rehab Centre help?

At Advance Rehab Centre, our physiotherapists and occupational therapists work together as a team. They understand Parkinson’s-specific movement challenges and tailor therapy to your goals, environment, and support network. Your falls program is designed to focus on building your confidence, safety and independence and can be provided in your home environment and/or in our Parkinson’s and Movement Disorders Hub.

Falls prevention is not about stopping activity, it’s about helping you keep moving safely.

Take-home message

If you or someone you care for has Parkinson’s and is worried about falling:

• You are not alone
• There are effective strategies
• A combined physio + OT approach offers the best support

If you’d like to learn more, talk to your Advance Rehab Centre therapist about personalised falls prevention options.