Fall Risk OSW Content
Stay Steady. Protect Your Bones & Prevent Falls.
Simple steps can help you stay safe, strong, and independent.
Staying active and independent isn’t just about avoiding falls, it’s about understanding what’s happening inside your body and taking steps to stay ahead. As you age, balance and bone strength can slowly weaken, increasing your risk of falling and breaking a bone.
Bone loss often has no warning signs, but knowing your bone health early can help you act, protect your bones, and stay independent.
Have questions about falls or bone health? Call us at 1-888-341-5030 (TTY 711), Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:45 p.m. Central Time. We’re here to help.
Why Bone Health Matters for Fall Prevention
A bone density scan does more than check your bones, it helps you understand your risk before a fall happens. Knowing your bone health is an important part of preventing falls and avoiding serious injuries.
A Bone Density Scan Can Help You:
- See how strong your bones are today
- Find early bone loss before it leads to fractures
- Take steps to lower your risk of injury if you fall
Knowing your results can help you and your healthcare provider create a plan to keep you active, confident and in control of your health.
Simple Ways to Build Stability, Stay Steady and Strong
Stay Active
Preventing falls takes more than one step, it’s healthy habits that support your whole body.
Movement can help you:
- Build strength to support balance
- Improve coordination and mobility
- Support better bone health
- Try activities like walking, light strength training, yoga, tai chi or Pilates.
Always talk with your healthcare provider before starting a new routine.
Make Your Home and Environment Safer
Your surroundings play a key role in keeping you safe.
- Clear walkways: Remove clutter and loose rugs to prevent trips and falls
- Install grab bars: Add support in bathrooms where slips are common
- Add handrails: Use both sides of stairways for extra stability
- Use good lighting: Improve lighting in hallways and stairways
- Wear non-slip shoes: Choose footwear that helps you stay steady
These changes can reduce risk while helping you move confidently in your daily routine.
Support Your Bone Health
Healthy habits can support better bone health:
- Eat foods rich in calcium and vitamin D
- Wear supportive, non-slip shoes
- Use assistive devices, like canes if needed for balance
Stay Aware of Your Health
Small checks can make a big difference:
- Vision and hearing tests can improve balance
- Taking medications as prescribed supports stability
- A bone density test helps you understand your risk
Understanding these factors helps you make smarter, safer choices.
Protect What Matters Most
Strong bones and better balance can help you stay independent and keep doing what you enjoy:
- Spending time with family and friends
- Staying active in your community
- Enjoying hobbies, shopping or outdoor activities
Take the Next Step: If you’ve fallen, feel unsteady or are concerned about your risk, don’t wait.
Ask your healthcare provider if a bone density scan is right for you, how to lower your risk of falls and broken bones, and simple ways to improve your balance, strength and safety.
Information contained in this communication is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your healthcare needs.
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