Falls are a leading cause of injury and loss of independence, resulting in more than 53,700 ambulance callouts last year, about 12% of the service’s total workload. This demand has steadily increased over recent years, reflecting New Zealand’s ageing population.
This week, Hato Hone St John launched its inaugural month-long April Falls campaign, aimed at working alongside partners like ACC, Osteoporosis New Zealand and communities to reduce the incidence and severity of falls and help New Zealanders age with strength, safety and dignity.
Hato Hone St John Clinical Services deputy chief executive Jon Moores said, in a statement, ‘‘for many older people, a single fall can be the moment that changes their daily life, affecting their mobility, confidence, independence, and overall wellbeing”.
“Falls are more common than people realise, and the risk increases over the age of 65. But this is not an inevitable part of ageing.
‘‘Many falls can be prevented through simple, everyday actions including regular movement, balance exercises, checking home hazards and staying connected with whānau and community,” Mr Moores said.
Hato Hone St John is encouraging New Zealanders to take three practical steps: enrol a loved one in a strength and balance class, download ACC’s free Nymbl app for people aged 50 and over, and reduce hazards in the home using Hato Hone St John’s falls prevention booklet.
“We are on a journey to standing stronger together, and our partners and communities all play a vital part. Everyone has a parent, grandparent, friend or neighbour who they can support to live confidently, safely and independently,” Mr Moores said.
Falls account for nearly 40% of all ACC injury claims. In 2025, ACC accepted more than 196,000 claims for falls among people aged 65 and older. These injuries cost over $460 million to help people recover.
Most falls attended by ambulance services occur in the home, highlighting the importance of simple changes to reduce everyday hazards. About 70% of patients are transported to hospital, while others can be safely supported at home or referred to community care.
Every year, one in three people over 65 injures themselves in a fall. Within ambulance data, most falls occur in older age groups, with a median age of 81 and over two-thirds involving people aged 75 and older.
ACC injury prevention leader James Whitaker said about 42% of all home-related injuries were from falls or loss of balance.
“Falls have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life, especially if it results in a fracture, so we want to do what we can to prevent them from happening in the first place.
“Research shows that regular strength and balance training can reduce the risk of falls by almost a third. ACC’s Live Stronger for Longer injury prevention programme supports older adults in staying active, independent and confident so they can keep doing the things they love,” Mr Whitaker said.
