✔ Backed by: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) · National Council on Aging · Medicare.gov (CMS). Each fact links to its source, and the full list is at the bottom of this post.
Imagine you call your mom on a Sunday afternoon. Halfway through the call she says, almost as an afterthought, “Oh, I took a little tumble in the kitchen this week. I’m fine. Don’t make a fuss.” Then she changes the subject. You hang up and keep thinking about it. Should you say something? Would she even want you to? Talking about it is the first step in falls prevention.
If that feels familiar, you are not alone. Falls Prevention Awareness Week is observed each September, but falls are a year-round worry for many families. Falls are the leading cause of injury death for adults 65 and older. In 2024, emergency departments recorded about 4.5 million visits for older adult falls [1]. That can sound scary. Here is the hopeful part: falls are not a normal part of aging, and many can be prevented [1]. So let’s talk about it, like two friends at the kitchen table.
“I’m fine. Don’t make a fuss.” What is really going on
Many older adults keep falls to themselves. Some feel embarrassed. Some worry that if they mention it, someone will take away their car keys or push them to move. Others just don’t want to be a bother. Those feelings are real, and they deserve respect.
But a fall, even a small one, is important information. Falls can make it harder for older adults to stay independent [1]. And CDC advises telling a healthcare provider right away after any fall, even if you did not get hurt [2]. Speaking up is not about losing freedom. It is about protecting it.
Have you ever kept a stumble or a dizzy spell to yourself? What made you hold back?
How to bring it up with someone you love
Here is one way that talk with your mom might go:
You: “Mom, I keep thinking about that tumble you mentioned. Are you okay?”
Your mom: “I told you, I’m fine. I just tripped.”
You: “I’m really glad you weren’t hurt. I’m not trying to boss you around. I want you to keep doing everything you love, on your own terms. Would you be willing to mention it to your doctor at your next visit?”
Notice what that does. It starts with care, not alarm. It honors her independence. And it asks for one small step instead of a big change.
What if she says, “You worry too much”? You might try: “Maybe I do. But I’d feel so much better if we looked at a couple of easy things together.” Talk openly about fall risks with your loved one and their provider. It is one of the best things a caregiver can do [5]. Tell a provider right away if your loved one has fallen, is worried about falling, or seems unsteady [5]. And respect their choices. Changes you make together are more likely to last.
Falls prevention questions for your next visit
Tell your care team if you have fallen, feel unsteady, or worry about falling. Ask for a fall risk check [2]. A few simple lines can open the door:
You: “Am I at risk for a fall? What can I do about it?”
Then: “Could any of my medicines make me dizzy or sleepy?”
And: “Would physical therapy or a balance class help me?”
That medicine question matters. Some medicines can make you dizzy or sleepy, such as sleep aids, some antidepressants, anxiety medicines, and opioids [4]. Ask your clinician or pharmacist to review all your medicines. Please don’t stop any on your own. Bring a current list to visits, including over-the-counter medicines and supplements [5]. CDC also suggests asking your provider whether you should take vitamin D [2].
If you have Medicare, the yearly wellness visit includes a review of your current prescriptions. You pay nothing for this visit if your provider accepts assignment. Extra tests or services during the same visit may cost you [9].
Dizzy when you stand up?
Some people feel woozy when they get out of bed or stand up from a chair. They often shrug it off. But for some people, blood pressure drops when they go from lying down to sitting, or from sitting to standing. This is called postural hypotension. It can cause dizziness, blurry vision, or a feeling that you might faint. Many people have no symptoms at all [6].
Take your time when you change position. Sit up first, sit on the side of the bed for a moment, and then stand [6]. And tell your clinician if this happens to you.
Eyes, feet, and shoes
It is easy to forget how much our eyes and feet keep us steady. Yearly eye exams and foot checks are worth putting on the calendar, and family can help set them up [5]. If you have foot pain, less feeling in your feet, or toe or foot problems, see a foot doctor (podiatrist) [7].
Shoes matter too. Many of us love padding around in socks or comfy slip-ons. But sturdy shoes with low heels, good grip, and strong arch and heel support are safer. Try to avoid walking in only socks, and skip shoes with no back [7]. Could a new pair of house shoes be a thoughtful gift this year?
“Moving less keeps me safer.” Not quite.
After a scare, it is natural to want to slow down and stay in your chair. But exercises that improve balance and make your legs stronger lower your chances of falling [2]. Exercises like tai chi and programs led by physical therapists can help [2].
Is cost or finding a class the worry? The National Council on Aging lists proven falls prevention programs, such as A Matter of Balance and Tai Chi programs. Its website has a map to help you find one in your state [8]. Costs vary, so ask before you sign up. Your local community or senior center may also know about classes [3]. Going with a friend can make it more fun, too.
A falls prevention walk-through of your home
Try walking through the house together, room by room, like you are seeing it for the first time. Start with walkways. Remove clutter and loose rugs, improve the lighting, and keep things you use often within easy reach [3].
On the stairs, keep things clear, add a light and switch at the top and bottom, and fix loose handrails. Railings on both sides of the stairs help. In the kitchen, keep everyday items on lower shelves, about waist high. Never use a chair as a step stool. In the bedroom, put a lamp close to the bed where it is easy to reach. In the bathroom, add grab bars, use a nightlight, and put a non-slip mat or strips in the tub or shower [3].
Which room in your home worries you most?
Have a plan if a fall happens
Keep a phone with you or wear a medical alert device, especially if you live alone [2]. Calling 911 is not overreacting. Call 911 if someone falls and:
- Is badly hurt
- Hits their head
- Cannot get up [2]
And after any fall, even one that seems minor, tell a healthcare provider right away [2].
Let’s talk
Now it’s your turn. We would love to hear from you in the comments below.
If you have talked with a parent or loved one about falls, what words worked? What didn’t?
What is one small change at home that made a big difference for your family?
What makes it hard to admit feeling unsteady, and what would make it easier?
One Tru Step: Walk through your home today with the CDC Check for Safety list and fix one thing.
Sources and further reading
- CDC: Older Adult Fall Prevention
- CDC STEADI: What You Can Do to Prevent Falls
- CDC STEADI: Check for Safety
- CDC STEADI: Medications Linked to Falls
- CDC STEADI: Family Caregivers: Protect Your Loved Ones from Falling
- CDC STEADI: Postural Hypotension: What It Is and How to Manage It
- CDC STEADI: Feet and Footwear for Older Adults
- National Council on Aging: Evidence-Based Falls Prevention Programs
- Medicare.gov: Yearly “Wellness” Visits
Sources checked October 10, 2026. General education; individual care and coverage questions require an appropriate professional.
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