A fall can happen in just a second, but the effects can last for months or even change a person’s independence. As we get older, preventing falls becomes an important part of staying healthy, active, and independent. The good news is that falling isn't something that simply happens with age. There are practical steps older adults can take to lower their risk and protect themselves from serious injuries. The CDC recommends talking with a healthcare provider about personal fall risk and creating a prevention plan. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐦 One of the best places to begin is with your doctor or healthcare provider. Ask them to evaluate your risk of falling and discuss steps that may help. Medications are another important consideration. Some prescription and over-the-counter medicines can cause dizziness or sleepiness, which may increase the risk of a fall. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your medications and let you know if any could affect your balance or alertness. It is also worth discussing vitamin D with your healthcare provider and asking whether supplementation may be appropriate for you. 𝐊𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐁𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠 A fall can become especially serious when it results in a broken hip. Hip fractures can be difficult to recover from, and some older adults may not be able to return to living independently afterward. Talk with your healthcare provider about osteoporosis screening and treatment when appropriate. Knowing the health of your bones can help you take steps to protect them before an injury occurs. 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 Strong legs and good balance can make everyday activities safer. Exercises that strengthen your legs and improve balance can help reduce your risk of falling. Activities such as Tai Chi are one example. The important thing is to find an activity that is appropriate for your abilities and health. If you are unsure where to start, ask your healthcare provider about exercises that are safe for you. 𝐃𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐄𝐲𝐞𝐬