Staying Steady: How to Reduce Your Risk of Falls

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan

Ready to Help

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is committed to improving the health and well-being of Michiganians, which includes helping older adults prevent falls. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one in four older adults fall each year, but less than half tell their doctor. The outcomes can be life-altering, leading to serious injuries, a loss of independence, and even death.

Falls are not only a major health risk, but also place a substantial financial strain on the healthcare system. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) reports that in 2020, falls among older adults cost approximately $80 billion—a figure projected to rise to $101 billion by 2030.

Prioritizing fall prevention helps reduce healthcare costs and improve the quality of life for older adults. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan created this toolkit to educate and raise awareness about fall risk factors and prevention strategies, empowering seniors and their loved ones to take proactive steps to stay safe.

Consequences of Falls

• Physical: Injuries such as hip fractures, broken bones, or head injuries
• Functional: Loss of independence and quality of life
• Psychological: Fear of falling, depression, and social isolation
• Healthcare utilization: Hospitalizations, rehab, and follow-up care
• Caregiver burden: Increased emotional, physical, and financial strain on family members and caregivers

Fall Risk Factors

• Taking medications such as sedatives or antihypertensives
• Vision and hearing impairment
• Postural hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up
• Chronic diseases such as arthritis, Parkinson’s and diabetes
• Environmental hazards in the home, like clutter, pets, poor lighting, loose carpets, slippery floors, low toilets, and loose cords
• Improper footwear and use of mobility aids

Prevention Strategies

• Review your prescribed or over-the-vounter medications and supplements with your doctor or pharmacist
• Schedule annual wellness visits with your primary care provider (PCP)
  • Your PCP cab track changes and help with a plan to prevent falls
• Schedule annual vision and hearing checks
• Stay physically active with strength and balance programs, walking, Tai Cho, yoga, or dancing
• Make home safety modifications such as:
  • Adding grab/high-friction bars, lighting, proper footwear, and tape to distinguish step heights
  • Removing clutter and loose rugs
• Obtain assistive devices like a cane or walker
• Use technology aids like smart watches or emergency response systems to detect falls
• Talk to your family members to ask for their help in taking simple steps to stay safe

When to Talk to a Provider

• After a fall: Contact your provider promptly to assess any injury and identify underlying causes
• Starting or reviewing medications: Before starting new medications, review your current medications and potential side effects with your provider, and discuss any symptoms you’re experiencing so they can assess how this may impact your fall risk
• Feeling dizzy/unsteady: Reach out to your provider if dizziness or unsteadiness is frequent or worsening
• Unsure or embarrassed about fall risk: Falling is common as we age – don’t let embarrassment stop you from bringing up concerns with your provider so you can make a plan together