Fall Prevention Resources for Caregivers
Caregivers can play an important role in preventing falls among older adults because they are often the first to see potential problems. They can help older adults address risk factors and talk with their health care providers.
How You Can Help Prevent a Fall
- Address a fear of falling. Fear of falling is common and can increase fall risk. Work with your family member/friend to fill out a self-assessment (PDF) of their fall risk. It will help you to understand their level of worry and discuss this with their doctor.
- Check-in regularly with your family member/friend. Calling or checking in daily can help an older adult prepare and stay safe if a fall occurs.
- Participate in appointments with your family member/friend’s health care providers. Review the National Institutes of Health Talking with Your Doctor web page for tips on how to get the most out of doctor visits.
- Help your family member/friend discuss sensitive issues with the doctor. An older adult may have difficulty discussing certain issues with their doctor, including depression, stress, incontinence, fear and alcohol use. These are important issues in developing a falls prevention plan.
- Make their home safer. Read How to Prevent Falls: A Home Safety Checklist (PDF)
Other languages: | Español | 中文 | Русский | 한국어 | Italiano | with your family member/friend, and find and fix fall hazards in the home.
Additional Resources
- New York City Department for the Aging Caregiver Support
- New York City Human Resources Administration Home Care Services Program offers access to long term care programs for older adults that are Medicaid eligible.
- Visiting Nurse Service of New York Caring for Aging Parents website
- New York State Office for the Aging and Home Care Agency Profiles.
- The Medicare Rights Center provides hands-on assistance with understanding benefits, navigating the Medicare system, and securing quality coverage.
- National Institute on Aging Caregiving Page
- AARP Prepare to Care Guide
- The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) requires some employers to grant employees job-protected leave to care for a family member.
For more information, email caregivers@aging.nyc.gov.