Caring for a loved one with a chronic medical condition or a complex medication regimen can certainly be a daunting enough task—but did you know that certain medical conditions and medications can increase your loved one's risk of falling?

• Diabetes can cause joint pain, pressure sensitivity in the feet, dizziness and vision problems.
• Circulatory diseases, like COPD, CHF and hypotension (low blood pressure), can cause dizziness and affect balance.
• Bone and joint conditions, such as osteoporosis and arthritis, can affect balance and mobility.
• Eye diseases, such as glaucoma and cataracts, interfere with vision and might cause you to trip over something you don’t see.
• Medications that depress the central nervous system increase the risk of falling. Ones to watch for: pain relievers, heart medications, antidepressants and seizure medications, as well as over-the-counter sleep aids, allergy medications, and some cold and cough remedies.
• The number of medications you take also affects your risk. Taking four or more per day increases your risk by nearly one-third—and 40 percent of Americans over age 65 take five to nine medications daily.

The good news: You can manage the medical risk factors to stay safe on your feet and avoid injury.

If medications are your concern, talk to your doctor before you make any changes—and be sure the primary care physician is aware of all the medications you take, including those prescribed by other doctors and any over-the-counter drugs or supplements. This way, any interactions or side effects can be addressed.

It’s always wise to get the go-ahead before beginning an exercise program, but if you or your loved one has a chronic disease it’s critical to receive physician’s approval first. If you have diabetes, for example, you may have problems with your feet that interfere with balance. Your doctor may recommend that you work with a physical therapist to ensure you’re doing the right exercises for your condition and that you’re doing them the right way to prevent injury.

Ask your doctor about Strong Foundations, a service from VNSNY specially designed to reduce the risk of falling in older adults. Our medical personnel will work directly with your doctor to develop a program that combines skilled nursing care and exercises specifically customized to address your needs.