Holi is a lively festival filled with movement, visitors, laughter and activity inside the house. But for senior citizens, this festive excitement can quietly increase the risk of one serious problem — falls. Dr. Akhilesh Rathi, Director, Joint replacement, Robotics and Orthopedic from Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute Paschim Vihar and Founder Rathi Orthopedic and Spine Clinic in Dwarka, New Delhi said “In my orthopedic practice, I often see a rise in fractures around festival periods, especially wrist fractures and hip fractures in people above 60 years. Unfortunately, in older adults a simple fall is never “simple”: it can affect independence, mobility and overall health for months.
During Holi, floors often become wet and slippery due to water, colours and frequent cleaning. Furniture gets rearranged, children run around, and elders try to participate or move quickly to avoid the chaos. All these small changes increase the chances of imbalance.
I always tell families: fractures in elderly people usually happen inside the home, not outside. Prevention is therefore more important than treatment.
Safety tips to follow during Holi:
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Keep floors dry and clutter-free Assign one area for playing colours and keep the rest of the house clean and dry. Immediately wipe water near bathrooms, balconies and entrances. Avoid loose mats or rugs as they slide easily.
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Proper footwear at home Encourage elders to wear anti-slip rubber-soled slippers even indoors. Walking barefoot on wet marble or tile flooring is one of the most common reasons for falls.
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Improve lighting Many falls happen when a senior moves from a bright area to a dim corridor or bathroom. Keep night lights on, especially in passages and washrooms.
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Bathroom precautions Install grab bars if possible. Place anti-skid mats near the shower and toilet area. After Holi celebrations, bathrooms are often wet — this is a high-risk zone.
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Avoid sudden participation in vigorous activity Elders should enjoy Holi socially rather than physically. They should avoid running, climbing stools, or bending quickly to clean colours. Even sudden twisting while avoiding water balloons can lead to imbalance.
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Medication and hydration Ensure seniors take medicines on time and remain hydrated. Dehydration and missed meals can cause weakness and giddiness, increasing fall risk.
WHAT TO DO IF A FALL HAPPENS
“If an elderly person falls and complains of hip, groin or wrist pain, or cannot stand, do not force them to walk. Keep them still and seek medical evaluation immediately. Early treatment prevents complications” said Dr. Akhilesh Rathi.
Festivals are meant to bring joy to every generation. With a few simple precautions and family support, our elders can safely enjoy Holi without risking injury. Protecting them from falls is one of the most valuable forms of care we can offer.
Dr. Akhilesh Rathi, Director, Joint replacement, Robotics and Orthopedic from Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute Paschim Vihar and Founder Rathi Orthopedic and Spine Clinic in Dwarka, New Delhi
