Fall Prevention Tips for Seniors from a Primary Care Perspective
Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults — and in many cases, they’re preventable. At Columbia Urgent Care, Dr. Jonathan Morris takes a proactive approach to senior wellness by helping patients and families in Columbia, Missouri understand how to reduce fall risk and maintain independence as they age.
Whether you're concerned about a parent, spouse, or your own safety, simple interventions can make a significant difference.
Why Fall Prevention Matters
According to the CDC, 1 in 4 adults over the age of 65 falls each year, with 1 in 5 of those falls leading to serious injury such as fractures or head trauma.¹ Many patients do not report falls to their doctor — even when they’ve fallen more than once.
Dr. Morris explains, “A single fall can have a domino effect — physical injury leads to fear, reduced mobility, and loss of confidence. That’s why prevention is far more effective than reaction.”
Common Risk Factors for Falls
Several factors contribute to increased fall risk, including:
Poor balance or muscle weakness
Medications that cause dizziness
Vision problems or low lighting at home
Chronic conditions such as arthritis or diabetes
Unsafe footwear or loose rugs
Lack of physical activity
A 2022 study in The Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy noted that “tailored exercise programs and home safety assessments reduce fall risk significantly in community-dwelling older adults.”²
Primary Care Strategies for Fall Prevention
At Columbia Urgent Care, we offer primary care for older adults that goes beyond basic screenings. Fall prevention is built into every senior visit, often including:
🩺 Medication Review
We evaluate prescription and over-the-counter medications that may cause sedation, dizziness, or drops in blood pressure.
🧠 Cognitive and Balance Assessment
We assess mental alertness and reflexes to identify neurological conditions that can impact coordination.
🦶 Foot and Footwear Evaluation
We discuss foot pain, nerve issues, and appropriate shoes to reduce the risk of tripping or slipping.
🏡 Home Safety Counseling
We provide personalized guidance on creating a safer living space — from lighting and grab bars to avoiding loose carpets and stairs.
🏃 Exercise Planning
We may recommend strength-building exercises, physical therapy, or local senior-friendly fitness programs to build core stability and prevent loss of muscle.
The Role of Preventive Visits
If you or a loved one is over 65, regular checkups with a knowledgeable provider can help detect early signs of instability and prevent future falls. We also incorporate balance-related screenings into our Platinum Physicals, ensuring seniors receive the most thorough assessment of fall risk.
Our goal at Columbia Urgent Care is to help seniors stay active, independent, and injury-free through targeted, personalized care.
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