How to Prevent Elderly Adults from Falling Out of Bed

Falls are a major concern among older adults, with the CDC reporting that more than one in four people 65 and older experience a fall each year. In this post, we’ll look at reasons for elderly people falling out of bed and how to prevent the elderly from falling out of bed.

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Why Do Adults Fall Out of Bed While Sleeping?

Older adults falling out of bed can be for a variety of reasons. Below are some possible reasons for elderly falling out of bed while sleeping.

• Balance and mobility issues. Reduced stability from arthritis, neuropathy, or muscle weakness can cause falls when shifting or reaching in bed.
• BPPV (vertigo). This inner-ear condition triggers dizziness when moving the head, making nighttime falls more likely.
• Confusion or disorientation. Dementia, delirium, or nighttime confusion can lead to unsafe movements out of bed.
• Diabetes and neuropathy. Nerve damage and poor body awareness from diabetes raise the risk of losing balance.
• Environmental changes. Rearranged furniture, slippery fabrics, or improper bed height can create confusion or hazards.
• Incontinence. Rushing to the bathroom half-awake increases fall likelihood, especially in dark rooms.
• Medication side effects. Sedatives, antidepressants, or blood pressure meds may cause dizziness or grogginess, especially upon waking.
• Prescription changes. New or adjusted drugs can impair coordination and balance, increasing fall risk.
• Recent hospitalization. Weakness or unfamiliar home setups after discharge can cause instability and falls.
• REM sleep behavior disorder. Acting out dreams with physical movements may cause flailing or falling out of bed.
• Rolling during sleep. Restlessness, sleep disorders, or sleeping near the edge can cause unintentional rolling out of bed.
• Sundowning. Evening confusion or agitation in dementia patients can cause unsafe attempts to get out of bed.
• Urgency to use the bathroom. Nocturia or bladder issues may cause rushing in low light, resulting in slips or falls.
• Worsening eyesight. Poor vision and low lighting make it harder to judge distances near the bed edge.

Now that we know more about the reasons for seniors falling out of bed, let’s take a look at ways to prevent an older adult from falling out of bed.

How to Keep Elderly from Falling Out of Bed

Falling out of bed as an adult can be prevented with some simple guidelines. Below are some ways to prevent falling out of bed while sleeping.

• Address balance and mobility challenges. A physical therapist can recommend exercises to improve strength, balance, and coordination. Assistive devices like walkers or canes provide added stability for nighttime movements.
• Bed alarms. Pressure-sensitive pads can alert caregivers when a person gets up unexpectedly, reducing risk of unattended falls.
• Bed height. Lowering the bed or using a low-profile mattress makes entry and exit safer and reduces injury risk if a fall occurs.
• Bed rails. Half-length or assist rails prevent rolling and offer support when sitting or standing. Portable rails work well for adjustable or hospital-style beds.
• Cord protectors. Keep lamp, charger, and alarm clock cords secured and away from walking zones to prevent tripping.
• Creating a roll barrier. Pool noodles or bolsters placed under the fitted sheet create a gentle edge that’s harder to roll over.
• Fall mats. Cushioned mats beside the bed can soften a fall and minimize injury.
• Firmness and age of mattress. Replace mattresses every 7-10 years (or sooner if heavily used). Overly soft or firm mattresses can cause pain, movement issues, or instability.
• Get up slowly. Sit for a moment before standing to steady blood pressure and prevent dizziness from conditions like BPPV or neuropathy.
• Keep walker or cane close by. Store mobility aids beside the bed for immediate support when standing.
• Lighting. Use nightlights or motion-sensing lights in the bedroom and bathroom for clear visibility after dark.
• Manage nighttime bathroom needs. Encourage bathroom use before bed, limit evening fluids, and consider a bedside commode to prevent rushing.
• Non-slip rugs and mats. Remove unsecured rugs or use non-slip pads and tape to prevent sliding.
• Position of bed. Place the bed against a wall to reduce fall zones and keep a sturdy nightstand with an easy-to-reach lamp for support.
• Positioning aids. Body pillows, wedges, or bolsters under fitted sheets help maintain a safe sleeping position.
• Review medications. If dizziness or drowsiness occurs, consult a doctor about dosage, timing, or alternative prescriptions.
• Wedge pillows. Long, narrow pillows can act as soft barriers along the bed edge to prevent rolling.

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