Preventing Falls: Conversation Starters

There are many ways to support the health and safety of an older family member or friend. Use these tips to talk to your loved one about preventing falls.

Start by saying that you care.

You can say:

• “You’re important to me, and I don’t want you to fall and get hurt. I know you want to be independent and stay in your home. Let’s talk about how we can keep you safe.”
• “I'm worried because more than 1 in 4 older adults fall each year, and some of those falls lead to serious injuries.”
• “There are lots of things you can do to prevent a fall. I want to help.”

Talk about ways to prevent falls.

You can say:

• “Being active will help you feel better and stay independent.”
• “Physical activity helps improve your balance and makes you stronger. This can help keep you from falling.”
• “Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your medicines with you. Some medicines can make you sleepy or dizzy and increase your risk of falling.”
• “Get your vision checked by an eye doctor every year. You might need new glasses or contacts.”
• “Making your home safer can help protect you. For example, you can put non-slip mats and grab bars in the bathtub or shower.”

Offer to help.

Here are some ideas:

• “Let me help you make a list of all your medicines to take to your doctor’s appointment. That way, you and your doctor can review them together.”
• “Getting your vision checked is important. I can help you get to your eye doctor appointment.”
• “Can I call a contractor for you to come install grab bars in your home?”
• “Having good balance is important for preventing falls. Let’s take a tai chi class together. That way we can both improve our balance.”
• “Can I install a phone next to your bed or close to your favorite chair? That way you can reach it without having to get up.”
• “Let me help you by moving your furniture so that you have a clear walking path.”
• “I see you have some books on your stairs. I’m going to move these to a shelf so you don’t trip over them.”