Tips to Help You Try to Avoid Hospitalizations

1. Prevent Falls, the Leading Cause of Injury Related Hospital Visits

Falls are the number one cause of injury for adults 65+ and lead to nearly 3 million emergency department visits each year .

The CDC emphasizes that many falls are preventable, even in older age.

Evidence based fall prevention strategies include:

• Annual fall risk screening with a healthcare provider
• Balance and strength exercises such as walking, tai chi, or structured programs (check your insurance plans)
• Medication review to identify drugs that cause dizziness or sedation
• Vision and hearing checks as sensory changes increase fall risk
• Home modifications such as removing clutter, improving lighting, and installing grab bars

2. Manage Chronic Conditions Consistently

Chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, COPD, and hypertension are major drivers of hospitalizations. The CDC notes that 6 in 10 adults have at least one chronic disease, and many hospitalizations are preventable with proper management.

Evidence based strategies:

• Regular primary care visits and annual wellness exams
• Following treatment plans and taking medications as prescribed
• Monitoring symptoms early to avoid complications
• Staying physically active, which improves blood pressure, glucose control, and lung function
• Managing stress and sleep, both of which influence chronic disease outcomes

3. Review Medications Regularly

Medication related issues, such as interactions, side effects, or incorrect dosing, are a common cause of preventable hospitalizations.

The Cleveland Clinic recommends:

• Bringing all medications and supplements to appointments
• Asking about drugs that increase fall risk (sedatives, antihistamines, some antidepressants)
• Watching for dizziness, confusion, or new symptoms after medication changes

4. Improve Home Safety to Reduce Injuries

Millions of people are injured at home each year, but most injuries are preventable.

Emergency physicians recommend:

• Keeping walkways clear
• Installing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Using nonslip mats and securing loose rugs
• Ensuring adequate lighting, especially at night
• Installing grab bars and handrails for older adults

These simple changes significantly reduce emergency visits.

5. Stay Physically Active to Maintain Strength and Balance

Physical activity is one of the strongest predictors of reduced hospitalization risk. The Mayo Clinic highlights that activities like walking, water aerobics, and tai chi improve balance, flexibility, and strength are all essential for preventing falls and maintaining independence.

6. Keep Up with Preventive Care

Preventive care helps detect problems early, before they become emergencies.

This includes:

• Blood pressure and cholesterol checks
• Diabetes screening
• Bone density testing
• Vision and hearing exams
• Annual bloodwork
• Other diagnostic tests

Preventive care reduces complications and hospital visits associated with chronic disease progression.

7. Know When to Seek Help Early

Many hospitalizations occur because symptoms were ignored or care was delayed.

Seek medical attention promptly for:

• Sudden weakness, dizziness, or confusion
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• New swelling, fever, or worsening pain
• Changes in mobility or balance

Early intervention prevents emergencies.