Fall Prevention for Older Adults

For Caregivers

About half of those who fall will need some help with everyday activities. Not only should you take the time to speak with the older adult in your life about fall prevention strategies but also evaluate your own situation and make changes for yourself as well. Older adults are not the only group affected by falls!

Below are some tips to follow when speaking with an older adult about making a change in his or her life. Look for links to more information near the bottom of the page.

Talk when you won’t be interrupted and when you are both relaxed.
Don’t tackle everything in one conversation.
Do not be judgmental. Remember: these are competent adults.
Don’t pepper them with questions. Finding ways to have a conversation about the future rather than answering a quiz will cause less anger and stress.
Involve others if it will help. There are people out there who help manage later life decisions and issues for families. In some cases, it’s easier to talk about these matters with an outsider than with a family member. Call your local Area Agency on Aging, attorney, or healthcare provider for assistance.
Be open and clear about the facts. Don’t whitewash problems. Be straightforward about the issue you are discussing.
Actively listen to their concerns, don’t just convey your own.
Focus on a goal that you can both agree on and that your healthcare provider has helped you set.