Tips to reduce risk of falls

September is National Falls Prevention Month, which is a great time for older adults to learn about the dangers falls pose to quality of life and independence. Falls can present a more significant health threat than many may realize, but by understanding risk factors and how to reduce them, older adults can empower themselves to live healthier lives.

By following these tips from Dr. Christopher S. Kleather, UnitedHealthcare’s chief medical officer of Ohio, older adults can reduce their chances of serious injury and maintain and improve the quality of their health to remain independent.

• Medications: Any time you get a new prescription, ask your pharmacist or doctor about side effects like dizziness or drowsiness that can affect balance.

• Review your health benefits: As we approach the Medicare annual enrollment period in October, older adults should consider whether their current plan includes programs that can help reduce the chances of a fall. Many Medicare Advantage plans, for example, include benefits that original Medicare does not cover that can help reduce the risk of falls, like vision and hearing benefits, gym memberships and disease management programs.

• Stay active: Do exercises that can strengthen your legs and improve balance. Many Medicare plans offers benefits to help seniors stay active like UnitedHealthcare’s fitness program RenewActive, which includes access to balance classes.

• Talk to your provider: A health-care provider can help assess and reduce your fall risk. Medicare-eligible individuals can access care through an annual wellness visit, which is free to anyone on Medicare. UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage members can take advantage of the HouseCalls program, which brings an annual health assessment to the convenience and privacy of home, at no additional cost. (HouseCalls may not be available in all areas.)

• Footwear: Make sure your shoes fit, have good traction and are comfortable. See a doctor if you are experiencing foot pain.

• Check your home: Most falls happen at home. Remove clutter, fix steps that are uneven and make sure there is adequate lighting. Install grab bars and handrails in the bathroom and on stairways. Use a cane, walker, crutches or other support if needed.

Falls can present a more significant health threat than many may realize, but by understanding risk factors and how to reduce them, older adults can empower themselves to live healthier lives.