DeTar Encourages Conversations That Keep You on Your Feet for Fall Prevention Week
9/18/2025
Talk to Your Doctor and Family About Fall Risk During Fall Prevention Awareness Week, Sept. 22 - 26, 2025
Following a successful Fall Risk & Prevention Seminar on September 17, DeTar Healthcare System is continuing its commitment to community education by encouraging older adults and caregivers to take the next step: start a conversation about fall risk—with your doctor and your family.
Each year, 1 in 4 older adults experiences a fall, but only half tell their doctor, according to the National Council on Aging. These missed conversations can lead to increased risk, delayed treatment, and preventable injuries. That’s why DeTar is sharing simple, actionable tips to help patients and their families talk openly about fall prevention.
“Having honest conversations with your healthcare provider is the first step to staying safe and independent,” said Jared Nielson, FNP-C, family medicine provider with DeTar Medical Group. “We want to know if you've had a fall—or even if you're just feeling unsteady. These are treatable risks, but only if we know about them.”
Six Tips for Talking to Your Doctor About Falls
- Write it down – Make a list of concerns before your visit, including balance issues, medications, or recent falls.
- Ask for a fall risk assessment – If you’ve fallen before or feel unsteady, ask your doctor to evaluate your risk.
- Discuss referrals – Your provider may suggest physical therapy, vision checks, or medication reviews to reduce your fall risk.
- Be honest – Share details if you’ve fallen, even if it didn’t seem serious. Every detail helps.
- Take notes – Bring a notepad or ask for written instructions to take home.
- Ask questions – Don’t hesitate to clarify anything. Repeat it back if needed to be sure you understand.
Tips for Talking to Your Family
- Fall prevention isn’t just a medical conversation—it’s also a family one. Here’s how to get started:
- Start small – Talk to a trusted family member or friend about your concerns.
- Be specific – Let them know how they can help, such as finding safety tools or joining you at appointments.
- Share openly – Keep your family informed about your health, medications, and fall history.
- Keep the conversation going – Fall risk can change over time. Keep your loved ones updated.
- Be assertive – Let your family know what you need to feel safe—like help rearranging furniture or installing grab bars.
“We want our patients to feel empowered—not embarrassed—about bringing up fall concerns,” added Nielson. “The earlier we talk, the sooner we can put a plan in place that works for you.”
Keep the Momentum Going
Even if you missed the seminar, it’s never too late to take action. Make an appointment with your primary care provider to discuss fall risk.
Download fall prevention tools by visiting ncoa.org for resources from the National Council on Aging.
Talk to your loved ones—you don’t have to prevent falls alone. For more information about fall prevention services or to schedule a visit with a provider, visit www.mydetardoctor.com.
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