September is Fall Prevention Awareness Month. It is a good time to think about how to stay safe and keep doing the things you enjoy. Falls are common in older adults, but many can be prevented.
A fall can cause broken bones or a hospital stay. It can also make you afraid of falling again. Small changes at home and healthy habits can help lower your risk.
Stay active to improve your balance
Staying active and moving your body can make your muscles stronger and improve your balance. This can help prevent falls. Even light activities can help. Try:
- Walking.
- Tai chi.
- Gentle stretching.
- Balance and strength exercises.
TotalCare (HMO D-SNP) members can use the Silver&FitÒ Healthy Aging and Exercise program. It has many resources to help you stay active and healthy.1
Make your home safer
Many falls happen at home. Look for things that could cause you to fall. You can:
- Remove loose rugs or use non-slip backing.
- Keep floors and walkways clear.
- Move cords out of the way.
- Use bright lights, especially in halls and on stairs.
- Put grab bars near the toilet and in the shower or tub.
- Use handrails on stairs.
- Wear shoes with non-slip soles. Do not walk in socks or loose slippers.
Get your eyes and hearing checked
Changes in your vision or hearing can make it harder to see things in your way or keep your balance. Regular eye exams and hearing checks can help you move around more safely. Make sure your glasses and hearing aids work well.
TotalCare (HMO D-SNP) members get one routine eye exam each year. They also get a $350 eyewear allowance every two years for frames and lenses or contact lenses every 2 years.
Review your medications
Some medicines can make you feel dizzy, sleepy or unsteady. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Ask your PCP or pharmacist to review your medications at least once a year. Talk with them sooner if you start a new medicine or have had a fall.
Talk with your PCP if you’ve fallen
Tell your PCP if you fall, even if you are not hurt. Your PCP can help find out why you fell. They may suggest exercises, physical therapy or other ways to prevent another fall.
Small steps can make a big difference
Staying active, making your home safer and keeping up with regular checkups can help you stay independent and continue doing the things you enjoy. This Fall Prevention Awareness Month, take a few simple steps to protect yourself. Your future self will thank you.
1The Silver&Fit program is provided by American Specialty Health Fitness, Inc., a subsidiary of American Specialty Health Incorporated (ASH). Persons shown are not Silver&Fit members.
TotalCare (HMO D-SNP) is a Medicare Advantage plan with a Medicare contract and a contract with the California Medicaid program. Enrollment in TotalCare depends on contract renewal. TotalCare is the trade name of Central California Alliance for Health. TotalCare is a registered trademark of the Santa Cruz-Monterey-Merced-San Benito-Mariposa Managed Medical Care Commission, a California public entity, operating as Central California Alliance for Health.
