Lifestyle Management to Prevent Falls

Falling is not a normal part of aging.

Many people think falls are a normal part of aging. The truth is they are not. Most falls can be prevented--and you have the power to reduce your risk of falling.

Exercising, managing medications, yearly hearing and vision checkup, and making your living environment safer are all steps to help prevent a fall.

Take the Falls Free Check-Up (en Español) to assess your risk.

Older Adults Exercising

The most effective way to prevent a fall is to be physically active. Performing strength and balance exercises at least three times per week will reduce the chances of falling. 

Some people may feel that if they limit their activity, it will reduce their chances of falling but this will increase the risk of falling because the muscles become weaker, which helps maintain balance and stability. 

Find an exercise or balance program: 5 ways to protect yourself from a fall. 

The Montana Falls Prevention Program supports three falls prevention programs:  

  • Stay Active & Independent for Life (SAIL)  
  • Stepping On  
  • Tai Chi for Arthritis & Falls Prevention.

All three programs include exercises designed specifically to help build strength and balance. 

At your annual wellness visit, ask your doctor to evaluate your risk for falling and talk with them about specific things you can do. 

Talk to your doctor about falls--6 tips for helpful conversation.  

Some risk factors for falling include:

  • Medications
    • Proper medication management is important to mange overall health, monitor chronic health conditions, and reduce risk of falling. 
    • Review medications annually with your doctor or a pharmacist. 
    • Download My Medication Record Form 

Prescription Rx Pad

Have your doctor and/or pharmacist review all the medication you take annually, this includes prescription medicine, over-the-counter medicine, herbal supplements, and vitamins. 

As we age, we are more likely to experience medication side effects. Some medicines or combinations of medicines can make you feel drowsy, dizzy, or light-headed. These may cause you to lose your balance or feel unsteady on your feet.

Resources for Medication Management

*If you have unwanted or expired prescription medications, you can bring them to a prescription dropbox. 

Your eyes and ears are key to keeping you on your feet. 
Have your hearing and vision checked every year. 

Hearing

Hearing Test

  • Check your hearing annually 
    • Find a local audiologist to have your hearing checked 

Vision 

Vision Test

  • Check your vision annually 
    • Find a local ophthalmologist or optometrist to have your vision checked 
  • Invest or upgrade eyeglass prescription as needed 
  • MonTech   
    • Try out low vision assistive technology devices and equipment for free 

Over half of the falls happen at home. Making simple changes around your home can decrease your risk of falling.

Farm Home

Easy Home Safety Adjustments 

  • Remove tripping hazards such as papers, books, clothes, and shoes 
  • Tape or tack down or remove rugs 
  • Replace dim or non-functioning light bulbs 
  • Put handrails on all stairs and steps 

Home Safety Resources