Discover Simple Steps to Prevent
Falls and Protect Your Health
Did your healthcare provider recently ask about your risk of falling?
As you age, falls can happen more often, but you can reduce your risk of falling with simple steps. Make your home safer by securing loose rugs, removing cords and toys from walkways, installing grab bars in the bathroom, and using good lighting. Also, review your medications with your healthcare provider, get regular eye exams, and use assistive devices like canes or walkers if needed.
Worried about falling or need assistance? Call us today at
1-888-341-5030 (TTY: 711), Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:45 p.m. Central Time. We’re here to help!
When you go to your appointment, you should be prepared to discuss:
- Your medications and any side effects you might be experiencing
- Your health conditions, such as any eye or ear disorders
- Other symptoms you may have like dizziness, joint pain or shortness of breath
- Have your feet checked and discuss proper footwear
- Exercises you can do to make your legs stronger and improve your balance
Once your healthcare provider has a better understanding of your symptoms and medications, they might ask you these questions:
- Have you fallen in the past 12 months?
- Have you had a problem with balance or walking in the past 12 months?
- What is your level of physical activity or exercise?
- Has your physical activity or exercise level changed in the past 12 months?
- Have you done anything to help prevent falls or treat problems with balance or walking?
Answering these questions honestly helps your healthcare provider monitor your physical activity and lower your risk of falling.
To reduce your risk of falling, keep talking with your healthcare provider and care team. Remember, fall prevention starts with you. Wear sturdy shoes and remove anything at home that could cause you to fall.
Still worried about falling? Watch this quick video for easy tips on how to make your home safer and reduce your risk of falling.
Talking to your healthcare provider about falls can help you stay independent. Let them know if you’ve fallen, tripped, feel unsteady, or have trouble standing up from a chair. They can help you avoid falls and keep you feeling your best!
Blue Advantage® (PPO) is provided by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama,
an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
Information provided is not intended to replace medical advice from healthcare professionals.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your healthcare needs.
H0104_FR(HOS)LP25_C
