Each year, 3 million older Americans are hospitalized for fall-related injuries. Falls can take a serious toll on your health, quality of life, and confidence, but there are actions you can take to help prevent falls.
Simple activities like staying physically active, getting your hearing and vision checked regularly, fall-proofing your home, and talking with your doctor can have a big impact.
KNOW YOUR RISK FACTORS
Some people may have a higher risk of falling if they:
Are over age 65
Have had previous falls
Have health conditions making it hard to balance or walk
Have vision or hearing loss
Take medications that cause dizziness, low blood sugar, or urgency to use the restroom
If you’ve recently fallen or have been newly diagnosed with health conditions that put you at a higher risk of falling, the CDPHP Care Team can help.
TALK WITH YOUR DOCTOR
Your doctor may have other tips to help reduce your risk of falling, including the addition of assistive devices like a cane or walker
If you have fallen, be honest and explain where and how you fell
Need help finding a doctor? Try Find-A-Doc.
GET YOUR HEARING AND VISION CHECKED REGULARLY
Both hearing and vision are important components of balance
About one in three people ages 65 to 74 has hearing loss, which can triple the risk of falls
New glasses, hearing aids, and/or ear wax removal can have enormous impact on fall risk!
Read 4 reasons to have a hearing test for more information about hearing loss.
Most CDPHP health plans offer access to our hearing health program through Hearing Care Solutions, free eye exams, and money towards glasses or contacts. Log in to your online member account for details about your plan.
STAY PHYSICALLY ACTIVE
Start small - dancing, walking, and tai chi certainly count!
Try strength training or weight-bearing exercises
Get started with this blog on 8 strength exercises to help prevent falls. You can also access these free fitness videos for other exercises like yoga to help you stretch and strengthen.
CDPHP Medicare Advantage members get a no-cost membership to SilverSneakers® for access to 15,000+ gyms and more than 200 online fitness classes.
Many CDPHP plans offer fitness reimbursement benefits where members can get money back for working out.
STAY MENTALLY FIT
Your emotional health is just as important as your physical health
Be sure to get the help you need if you’re facing mental health challenges like coping with anxiety or depression or struggling with the loss of a loved one
All CDPHP plans offer resources to support your mental health care needs.
REVIEW MEDICATIONS WITH YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST
Certain medications can cause dizziness and balance issues
Certain medications can cause more frequent (and rushed) bathroom trips, which may lead to more falls
Your doctor or pharmacist may recommend changes to your medications or the timing of your medications to reduce your fall risk
As a CDPHP Medicare Advantage member, you may qualify for Medication Therapy Management (MTM). If eligible, you can get a one-on-one medication review with a pharmacist at no additional cost.
The CDPHP MedCheck program is available for members who don’t qualify for MTM but would like to review medications with a pharmacist.
TIPS ON HOW TO FALL-PROOF YOUR HOME
Floors
Keep electrical and phone wires out of walkways
Put non-slip mats in the kitchen and bathrooms
Use non-skid backing on area rugs
Stairs and Hallways
Keep clutter out of stairs and hallways
Put sturdy handrails on staircases
Make sure rugs are secure
Repair loose or uneven stair treads
Kitchen
Bedrooms
Bathrooms
Use a non-slip rubber mat in the tub or shower
Have grab bars installed in the tub and next to the toilet
Use a nightlight in bathrooms
Make sure you
Wear non-skid, sturdy shoes
Use bright lights to improve visibility
Have lightweight curtains or shades hung to lessen glare from the sun
OTHER RESOURCES
Get a printable checklist to review with your doctor or family. Check off the boxes as you fall-proof your home!
Read Stand strong: Tips to prevent falls and stay on your feet for more information and tips on fall prevention.