Why this matters
Dementia affects gait, judgment, attention, and vision at the same time that medications and blood pressure changes add risk. Most falls result from several contributors acting together.
Warning signs
- Unsteadiness, shuffling, or holding furniture while walking
- Near-falls or a first fall
- Dizziness on standing
- Fear of walking
- New weakness or slowing
What families can do
- Ask for a medication review, focusing on sedatives and blood pressure drugs
- Check blood pressure sitting and standing
- Request physical therapy for strength and balance
- Improve lighting, remove rugs, add grab bars and railings
- Ensure proper footwear and updated eyeglasses
When to get help
- Any fall with head injury, especially on blood thinners
- Two or more falls in six months
- New difficulty walking or new dizziness
Related resources
Medically reviewed. Last reviewed August 2026. This page is educational information, not individualized medical advice.