Everyday Habits That Increase Your Risk of Falls Without You Knowing It
Thanksgiving is a special time for family, food, and connection. But it’s also one of the busiest—and most dangerous—times of the year for falls, especially for adults 65 and older. At SportOrtho, we see it every year: slips in the kitchen, trips on cluttered floors, lifting injuries, and falls caused by fatigue or balance problems.
The good news? Most falls are preventable. With the right steps, you can stay safe, confident, and active through the holidays and beyond.
This guide will walk you through the most common Thanksgiving-related injuries, the everyday habits that quietly increase your fall risk, and how conservative orthopedic care and physical therapy can help keep you steady on your feet.
Why Thanksgiving Is a High-Risk Time for Falls
Thanksgiving adds a perfect storm of fall risks:
Crowded Homes
More people means more clutter, more movement, and more chances to trip.
Busy Kitchens
Spills from water, oil, and food are common—and very slippery.
Travel
Navigating stairs, new environments, or carrying luggage can throw off balance.
Cold Weather
Wet or icy walkways make outdoor falls more likely.
Fatigue
Long days standing, hosting, or cooking weaken your legs and slow reaction time.
The Most Common Thanksgiving Injuries
1. Slips in the Kitchen
Grease, water, and dropped food create slick floors.
2. Trips Over Rugs, Cords, or Decorations
Extra holiday items can create unexpected hazards.
3. Falls on Stairs or Uneven Surfaces
Carrying dishes, bags, or decorations can block your view.
4. Lifting Injuries
Turkeys, boxes, and luggage are often heavier than people realize.
5. Balance-Related Falls
Long periods of standing, cooking, or cleaning increase fatigue.
6. Falls During Traditions
Reaching to decorate or carrying heavy serving trays raises fall risk.
Everyday Habits That Increase Your Fall Risk Without You Knowing It
You may not realize how small daily habits can lead to big fall risks over time.
Walking in Socks on Slick Floors
Tile and hardwood become dangerous without traction.
Using Furniture for Support
Holding onto chairs or countertops means your body isn’t learning proper balance.
Rushing Through Tasks
Quick, short steps make you unstable.
Avoiding Exercise
Weak legs = higher fall risk.
Poor Posture
Slouching shifts your center of gravity forward.
Not Turning on Lights at Night
Shadows hide trip hazards.
Wearing Old or Unsafe Shoes
Worn-out soles or loose slippers are a major cause of falls.
Not Drinking Enough Water
Dehydration can lead to dizziness.
Skipping Handrails
They exist for a reason—they reduce fall risk by more than 50%.
How to Prevent These Injuries: Simple Steps for a Safer Thanksgiving
Fall prevention doesn’t need to be complicated. These small changes make a big difference.
Home Safety Tips
Keep floors clear and clutter-free.
Clean up spills right away.
Use non-slip rugs or remove loose ones.
Add nightlights in hallways and bathrooms.
Keep walkways open when cooking or hosting.
Balance and Strength Tips
You don’t need gym equipment to improve balance.
Try these daily:
Sit-to-Stand: Builds leg strength.
Ankle Circles: Improves stability.
Marching in Place: Helps balance.
Standing Heel Raises: Strengthens calves for safer walking.
Your balance system lives in your inner ear. This is called the vestibular system, and simple exercises can help keep it strong.
Safe Hosting & Cooking Tips
Wear supportive shoes.
Take breaks every 20–30 minutes.
Ask someone else to lift heavy pans.
Don’t rush—steady steps are safe steps.
Safe Travel Tips
Use handrails on stairs.
Make sure outdoor steps and driveways are dry.
Keep bags light and balanced.
Slow down when entering unfamiliar homes.
When to See a Conservative Orthopedic Provider or Physical Therapist
You should seek help if you notice:
Feeling dizzy or unsteady
Tripping more often
Trouble stepping up curbs
Weakness in your legs
Grabbing walls or furniture for balance
Falls are not a normal part of aging. They are a sign that your body needs support—strength, balance training, or a deeper look at what’s causing instability.
How Physical Therapy Helps
Strengthens weak muscles
Improves balance and posture
Builds confidence so you can move without fear
Reduces pain that leads to instability
How Conservative Orthopedic Care Helps
Identifies joint problems
Addresses pain and weakness
Builds a safe, customized care plan before surgery is ever considered
Why SportOrtho Is a Leader in Fall Prevention
At SportOrtho, we specialize in conservative, non-surgical care for fall prevention. Our team provides:
Fall risk assessments
Balance and gait training
Strength-building programs
Personalized physical therapy
Supportive, compassionate guidance for older adults and caregivers
We believe that you deserve to feel steady, safe, and confident—during Thanksgiving and all year long.
You Can Prevent Falls — And We Can Help
A fall can change your life in seconds. But with the right steps, it’s completely preventable.
If you or a loved one feels unsteady, now is the best time to take action.
Schedule a fall risk assessment with SportOrtho today.
