Take Steps to Prevent Falls

Falls are not a normal part of aging, and many falls can be prevented. Simple changes at home, staying active and using the right safety or mobility equipment can help reduce your risk while supporting your independence.

Start by looking around your home. Improve lighting in hallways, bedrooms, and bathrooms; remove clutter and tripping hazards; secure loose rugs; and keep frequently used items within easy reach. In the bathroom, properly installed grab bars and other safety equipment can provide additional stability.

Staying physically active is also important. Activities that improve strength and balance can help you stay steady on your feet. Wear supportive, non-slip footwear and use a properly fitted cane, walker or rollator if you need additional support.

Medications can sometimes contribute to dizziness, drowsiness or changes in balance. Talk with your healthcare provider or pharmacist about your medications, particularly if you've experienced dizziness or a fall.

Need help finding the right safety or mobility products? Northern Pharmacy & Medical Equipment carries mobility aids, bathroom safety products, and other everyday living solutions designed to help you remain safe, comfortable, and independent.

National Council on Aging — Falls Prevention — additional tools and resources for older adults and caregivers.  

CDC — About Older Adult Fall Prevention - Fall risks and prevention information from the CDC.

Healthy aging doesn't require changing everything at once. Small, positive choices can add up — and it's never too late to start.

National Institute on Aging – Healthy Eating: Nutrition information specifically geared toward healthy aging.
Healthy Eating, Nutrition and Diet for Older Adults

• National Institute on Aging – Healthy Aging: Excellent general resource covering healthy lifestyles, activities, health information and aging.
  Explore Healthy Aging Resources from the National Institute on Aging

• CDC – Physical Activity for Older Adults: Practical recommendations for aerobic activity, strength and balance. 

• Physical Activity Recommendations for Older Adults

Healthy aging is about more than getting older — it’s about supporting your physical, mental, and social well-being so you can continue doing the things you enjoy. The choices we make every day can play an important role in maintaining our health and independence as we age. Staying physically active, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, keeping up with routine medical care, managing medications, and staying socially connected can all contribute to healthy aging.

A few simple ways to support healthy aging:

• Keep moving. Walking, stretching, strength exercises and activities that improve balance can help maintain strength, mobility and independence.

• Eat well and stay hydrated. Choose a variety of nutrient-rich foods and remember to drink fluids throughout the day.

• Stay connected. Spend time with family and friends, volunteer, join a group or rediscover a hobby you enjoy.

• Keep up with preventive care. Schedule routine checkups and screenings and talk with your healthcare providers about changes in your health.

• Review your medications. Make sure you understand what you take, why you take it, and how to take it safely.

• Stay up to date on recommended vaccines. Your healthcare provider or pharmacist can help you determine which vaccines are appropriate for you.

Why Regular Medication Reviews Are Important

As we age, our bodies naturally process medications differently. A medication that worked well years ago may increase the risk of side effects, dizziness, falls, confusion, or medication interactions later in life. That's why regular medication reviews are an important part of maintaining your health and independence.

Healthcare professionals often use the American Geriatrics Society (AGS) Beers Criteria® as a guideline to identify medications that may require additional evaluation in adults aged 65 and older. The Beers Criteria® is not a list of medications to avoid altogether. Instead, it serves as a conversation starter between patients and healthcare providers to determine whether a medication is still the safest and most appropriate option based on an individual's health, medical conditions, and treatment goals.

A medication review can help:

• Review your current prescription medications

• Evaluate over-the-counter medications and dietary supplements

• Identify potential drug interactions

• Discuss medications that may increase the risk of falls or other side effects

• Answer questions about your medications and how to take them safely

Our pharmacists are committed to helping you better understand your medications and supporting you in making informed healthcare decisions. If you have questions about your prescriptions or would like to learn more about medication safety, we're here to help.

Learn More About the AGS Beers Criteria®

American Geriatrics Society Beers Criteria®: https://geriatricscareonline.org/ProductAbstract/american-geriatrics-society-updated-ags-beers-criteria-for-potentially-inappropriate-medication-use-in-older-adults/CL001