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As we age, we begin to learn — sometimes firsthand –- how devastating a fall can be. It isn’t quite as easy as it once was to hop back up and continue on our way.

Each year, millions of older adults experience falls and fall-related injuries. In Maryland, 23% of adults over age 65 reported a fall in the past 12 months, according to new local data from the 2021 America’s Health Rankings Senior Report.

Among older adults, one out of five falls causes a serious injury, including 90% of hip fractures and 51% of traumatic brain injuries.

Contributing factors for falls include poor balance, poor vision, certain medications, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, osteoporosis, physical disabilities and general frailty.

Being aware of the risk factors and following the tips below can reduce your chances of serious injury and help you maintain and improve the quality of your health so you can remain independent.

Understand medicine side effects

Any time you get a new prescription, ask your pharmacist or doctor about side effects like dizziness or drowsiness that can affect balance.

Review your health benefits

As we approach the Medicare annual enrollment period beginning October 15, older adults should consider whether their current plan includes programs that can help reduce the chances of a fall.

Many Medicare Advantage plans, for example, include benefits that Original Medicare does not cover that can help reduce the risk of falls, such as vision and hearing benefits, gym memberships, and disease management programs.

Stay active

Do exercises that can strengthen your legs and improve balance. Many Medicare plans offer benefits to help seniors stay active, such as UnitedHealthcare’s fitness program RenewActive®, which includes access to balance classes.

Invest in quality footwear

Make sure your shoes fit, have good traction, and are comfortable. See a doctor if you are experiencing foot pain.

Talk to your doctor

A healthcare provider can help assess and reduce your fall risk. Medicare-eligible individuals can access care through an annual wellness visit, which is free to anyone on Medicare. (UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage members can take advantage of the HouseCalls program — which brings an annual health assessment to the convenience and privacy of your home — at no additional cost.)

Check your home

Most falls happen at home. Remove clutter, fix steps that are uneven, and make sure there is adequate lighting in every room.

Install grab bars and handrails in the bathroom and on both sides of stairways. Use a cane, walker, crutches or other support if needed.

Falls can present a more significant health threat than many may realize, but by understanding risk factors and how to reduce them, older adults can empower themselves to live healthier lives.

Dr. James J. Carney is UnitedHealthcare’s Chief Medical Officer for Medicare and Retirement in the Mid-Atlantic.