Category: Brandpoint Health

2021-09-10T09:01:01

This is not a complete list of side effects. Talk to your healthcare provider for more information.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

How should I store and take LIVALO?

• Store LIVALO tablets at room temperature, in a dry place, protected from light, and keep out of the reach of children.
• Take LIVALO orally once daily with or without food at the same time each day.
• Swallow the tablet whole. Do not split, crush, dissolve, or chew.
• The maximum recommended dosage is LIVALO 4 mg once daily.
• If you take too much LIVALO or you or someone else takes an overdose, call your doctor and/or local Poison Control Center.

Other important information I should know about LIVALO.

• LIVALO is available by prescription only.

For additional information please see the full Prescribing Information or visit www.LivaloRx.com.

© Kowa Pharmaceuticals America, Inc. (2021) – LIV-RA-0142 PI of 09/2020

2021-09-10T06:01:00

(BPT) – –

2021-09-08T17:09:01

(BPT) – –

2021-09-08T10:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation.

Have you noticed that your eyes have started to feel dry or itchy? Are your eyes affected after endless video conferences and binge watching your favorite shows? You may not be alone.

A Novartis-sponsored survey of 1,003 US residents aged 35 years and older found that about one in four respondents said they believed their dry eye symptoms have gotten worse since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.¹ A majority (78%) of the 240 participants who reported worsening dry eye symptoms responded that they thought it was a result of increased screen time.^1,i Ophthalmologist Elizabeth Yeu, MD, notes, “I’ve seen a rise in my patients complaining of painful or irritating eye symptoms like dryness, itchiness, occasional blurry vision, redness, burning, stinging, or grittiness. Many people may not realize that these could be symptoms (or signs) of an actual disease called dry eye disease – or DED – which may require help from an eye care professional.”²

What is dry eye disease and who is at risk?

Dr. Yeu explains that dry eye disease (DED) is actually a common reason for seeking care from an eye care professional.³ It is a complex condition affecting the eye’s surface and may present as symptoms including eye discomfort, irritation, or pain.⁴ An estimated 16 million people in the United States were diagnosed with DED, and an additional 6 million people reported having dry eye symptoms, but had not been diagnosed with DED.^5*

“Inflammation in the eye can contribute to dry eye disease, and the symptoms may vary greatly depending on the person. Dry eye is generally more common in women than in men,⁶ but I’ve seen an uptick in complaints in my practice across all types of patients,” said Dr. Yeu. “Some other risk factors for developing DED include advanced age, hormonal imbalance, and certain environmental factors.”³

Key survey insights

The majority of people surveyed reported experiencing some sort of disruption while using a phone or tablet or watching TV.^1,ii Additionally, more than half reported having to stop, decrease, or change the way they read.^1,iii And around 40% of those who wear makeup had to stop, decrease, or change the way they were wearing makeup near their eyes.^1,iii

“For my patients, making adjustments may have seemed like another everyday nuisance during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, but I told them they shouldn’t have to put up with the pain or impact of disruptive symptoms on their lives,” says Dr. Yeu. “These irritating symptoms are often brought to my attention by my patients, and sometimes dry eye disease is the culprit.”

The survey also found that:¹

• About 40%^iv of people who were undiagnosed (513) characterized their dry eye disease as a chronic condition or disease
• Two-thirds^v said wind was a triggering environmental factor
• 10%^vi felt their work had been impacted by DED
• About one-third^vii of those surveyed said, hypothetically, they would give up wine or other alcoholic beverages – and more than a quarter^vii – would give up social media for a year in exchange for alleviated dry eye symptoms

Dry eye disease symptoms may vary drastically from person to person.⁴ Some people may not realize that their symptoms could be an actual disease which may require help from an eye care professional.² Dr. Yeu recommends that people visit their eye care provider to help appropriately diagnose and manage their symptoms.

“Our lives are grounded in moments, from big milestones to simple pleasures like family movie night or reading a child’s bedtime story. But these activities may be missed out on, and for some, in my experience, can become more challenging when experiencing dry, itchy, or burning eyes,” says Dr. Yeu. “Ultimately, we want to educate the public on the importance of dry eye disease and encourage those experiencing symptoms to speak to an eyecare professional about how to best manage their condition.”

References:

1. Data on File_Meaningful Moments Survey Data_2020_Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp; September 2020.
2. Verjee M, Brissette A, Starr C. Dry eye disease: early recognition with guidance on management and treatment for primary care family physicians. Ophthalmol Ther. 2020;9:877-888.
3. Stapleton F, Alves M, Bunya V, et al. DEWS II Epidemiology report. Ocul Surf. 2017;334-336.
4. Craig J, Nelson J, Azar D, et al. TFOS DEWS II report executive summary. Ocul Surf. 2017;15(4):802-812.
5. Farrand K, Fridman M, Stillman I, et al. Prevalence of diagnosed dry eye disease in the United States among adults aged 18 years and older. Am. J Ophthalmol. 2017;182:90-98.
6. Schaumberg D, Uchino M, Christen W, et al. Patient reported differences in dry eye disease between men and women: Impact, management, and patient satisfaction. PLOS One. 2013;8(9):1-11.

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7/21 132313

2021-09-07T09:46:25

(BPT) – With school back in session for children across the country, consistency can be key as they have entered their first “normal” school year in over 18 months. Full-time classroom learning will undoubtedly come with challenges for some children and adolescents – but Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) treatments don’t have to be one of them!

Breaks from medication

During the school year, healthcare providers may encourage parents to skip their child’s ADHD medications on weekends, holidays or other breaks in what are called “drug holidays.” Drug holidays are known as deliberate interruptions of pharmacotherapy for a defined period of time and for a specific clinical purpose and may vary from short breaks such as weekends, to longer breaks like summer vacation.¹ Especially for children whose ADHD is managed with a controlled substance, parents may opt to take a break from the treatment while school is not in session.

More than a “school problem”

Recognize that ADHD isn’t just a “school problem.”² Even if children with ADHD are doing well in school, afterschool activities, homework time and completing daily chores may be a struggle. If you feel your child functions better with medication, it’s best to speak with your health care provider about what’s best before making any decisions on treatment.

No two kids are created equal

The pandemic allowed parents to witness their child’s behavior firsthand – it became strikingly clear to some, how ADHD may affect their child’s abilities during school.³ But it’s important to remember that your child is constantly developing and changing from year to year, so it’s essential to pay attention to behaviors, changes in activities and interactions with others, to ensure you are managing their care appropriately, with the oversight of a health care provider. Deciding to take a drug holiday (or shorter medication vacations) comes down to “when” or “why” it may be beneficial for your child to take an ADHD medication and what may have changed in their life since the medication was first prescribed.⁴

Timing is everything

Parents who helped their kids with virtual school during the pandemic may have seen the value of their children remaining on medication. If your child is returning to their ADHD medication regimen, it’s best to consult with your health care provider to consider the best time of day to take their medication to optimize effectiveness.

Other ADHD medication options

Taking a break from medication isn’t the only option. Your health care provider may recommend to reassess treatment options. The FDA approved a novel, non-stimulant treatment that is effective in reducing ADHD symptoms, often as early as week one.

Qelbree™ is a novel, non-controlled medication approved for the treatment of ADHD in children and adolescents, aged 6-17.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION ABOUT QELBREE

Qelbree (viloxazine extended-release capsules) 100mg, 150mg, or 200mg may increase suicidal thoughts and actions, especially within the first few months of treatment or when the dose is changed. Tell your child’s doctor if they have (or if there is a family history of) suicidal thoughts or actions before starting Qelbree. Monitor your child’s moods, behaviors, thoughts, and feelings during treatment with Qelbree. Report any new or sudden changes in these symptoms right away.

• • Your child should not take Qelbree if they: Take a medicine for depression called a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), or stopped taking an MAOI in the last 14 days. Also, your child should avoid alosetron, duloxetine, ramelteon, tasimelteon, tizanidine, and theophylline.
  • Qelbree can increase blood pressure and heart rate. Your child’s doctor will monitor these vital signs.
  • Qelbree may cause manic episodes in patients with bipolar disorder. Tell your child’s doctor if they show any signs of mania.
  • Do not let your teen drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Qelbree will affect them. Qelbree may cause your teen to feel sleepy or tired.
  • The most common side effects of Qelbree include sleepiness, not feeling hungry, feeling tired, nausea, vomiting, trouble sleeping, and irritability. These are not all the possible side effects of Qelbree.
  • You may report negative side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or visit www.fda.gov/medwatch.
  • Please see Medication Guide at Qelbree.com.

References:

1. Ibrahim K, Donyai P. What stops practitioners discussing medication breaks in children and adolescents with ADHD? Identifying barriers through theory-driven qualitative research. Atten Defic Hyperact Disord. 2018;10(4):273-283. doi:10.1007/s12402-018-0258-9
2. Iannelli, V. (2021, May 10). ADHD Adderall Drug Holidays for Children. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/adhd-drug-holidays-2634581. Accessed July 1, 2021.
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020, September 3). ADHD in the Classroom. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/school-success.html.
4. Lohr WD, Wanta JW, Baker M, et al. Intentional Discontinuation of Psychostimulants Used to Treat ADHD in Youth: A Review and Analysis. Front Psychiatry. 2021;12:642798. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2021.642798

2021-09-06T15:07:00

(BPT) – Kids love to eat, but many don’t know how their favorite meals are made. If your child expresses interest in cooking or making food for themselves, the best time to get them in the kitchen is now. No matter their age, fostering your kids’ interest in foods and cooking can boost their confidence and equip them with lifelong skills that will serve them well.

Your child’s ability to master different recipes and cooking styles will depend on multiple factors. However, there are many ways to empower your child in the kitchen. Here are three tips to get started.

Making dinner once a week

Having your child assist with or cook dinner can be a great learning opportunity. Before they start prepping, make sure you:

• Assign tasks appropriate for their age: Give younger kids simpler duties like washing produce or clearing off the table. Older kids can typically do more advanced tasks like boiling pasta, reviewing recipes or chopping vegetables.
• Have them pick the recipes: When it comes to creating food, kids like to have choices. By letting them choose what they make, they’re more invested in the process and committed to making their dish the best it can be.
• Allow for mistakes: Mistakes while cooking can provide a valuable learning experience. When your kids make an error, it can help them adapt to unfamiliar and difficult situations.
• Challenge them: When your kids make complicated meals, use positive reinforcement and reward their efforts rather than the outcome.
• Have them clean up: Get your child into the habit of cleaning up right after they’re done cooking. Have them turn off the stove, oven and any other devices they used to cook.

Packing their own lunch

When kids pack their own lunches, that extra responsibility can do them a huge favor. According to a recent study, kids who pack their own lunches have increased self-esteem and confidence when solving problems. Encourage them to pack a balanced lunch that contains whole grains, vegetables, fruits and protein.

Power Your Lunchbox from the Healthy Family Project has a variety of lunchbox recipes that are both tasty and nutritious. With meals like chickpea stuffed peppers, burger skewers and pizza pockets, there are countless options your kid will love.

Making their own afterschool snacks

Kids often need an afternoon snack to tide them over until dinner. A healthy afternoon snack can help them power through their homework, study hard and do well in school, so why not encourage them to make their own? For instance, if they like to eat ants on a log, show them where to find the peanut butter, raisins and celery in the kitchen and how they can combine these ingredients into the perfect afterschool snack.

Prepare your kiddo for success

A child doesn’t achieve their full potential overnight. But when you empower them in the kitchen, anything is possible. With nutritious recipes from Power Your Lunchbox, your kids can get the nutrients they need to do well in school and beyond.

Healthy Family Project’s Power Your Lunchbox program is doing more than just offering lunchbox inspiration this year. Since so many teachers have gone above and beyond during these unprecedented times, you can nominate your child’s favorite teacher for a chance to win five $250 Amazon gift cards. All you have to do is upload three words that describe your child’s favorite teacher.

Information is available now at healthyfamilyproject.com/poweryourlunchbox/sweepstakes/.

2021-09-03T16:58:45

(BPT) – COVID-19 has shaken communities worldwide. Despite strenuous efforts by caregivers and medical professionals alike, people needing long-term care and living in communal care settings have suffered gravely. According to a New York Times database, almost one-third of U.S. coronavirus deaths have been tied to nursing homes and other long-term care facilities. As a post-pandemic world nears, a new question emerges: What can be done to safeguard long-term care before the next public health emergency?

1) Understand the options.

Communal living — especially for populations with higher risk — increases the odds of disease transmission. However, nursing homes and communal care facilities are often the default for long-term care in the United States. One safe alternative is home and community-based services (HCBS), which enable people to receive long-term services and supports as they age or live with disabilities.

With HCBS, people can remain in their own homes and hire caregivers they know and trust. This approach is often called self-directed services or self-direction. People using self-direction decide who provides their long-term support services as well as when, where and how. From personal care to meal prep, transportation to skilled medical services, self-direction puts the person receiving services, or their designated family member, in control.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) encourages HCBS. During the pandemic, HCBS has helped reduce transmission of COVID-19. Some companies specializing in self-directed care also found less disruption with HCBS. At GT Independence, a company that supports self-direction, COO Holly Carmichael reported no service interruptions and found more people choosing self-direction for safe and stable long-term care.

CMS also notes that HCBS provides gainful employment to family members or friends who are already providing informal care. Fortunately, self-direction is recognized in all 50 states, although programs and names vary; local aging and disability service offices provide guidance on getting started.

2) Follow and enforce CDC safety protocols.

Regardless of where someone chooses to receive care, strictly following CDC safety protocols helps to instill habits that protect the well-being of those receiving long-term support. Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as masks, should be used by people needing support and any caregivers who reside separately, whenever and wherever services are provided. Also, distancing people receiving services from caregivers who are unwell or who have been exposed to viruses minimizes risks.

As guidelines rapidly evolve, especially for those who are vaccinated, those receiving care and their caregivers are encouraged to visit the CDC website for the latest recommendations.

3) Encourage paid sick leave.

Caregivers typically don’t receive paid sick leave, which often has unintended consequences. Without paid leave, caregivers may feel financial pressure to work while ill. Not only may this slow their own recovery, but it increases the risk of exposing the person they care for to illness.

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) has made it possible for people receiving long-term services and support to provide paid sick leave to their employees or caregivers due to pandemic-related reasons. Regular caregivers can address their health, protect their employer and avoid financial stress. At the same time, people receiving care can work with their self-direction partners to find substitute care. Such partners may maintain networks of vetted caregivers to ensure continuity of service and support.

The FFCRA has been a lifeline for many caregivers, and it has already been extended twice. Lawmakers should be encouraged to make paid sick leave a viable option for caregivers beyond the pandemic.

4) Prioritize HCBS options.

HCBS programs have proven successful in terms of quality of life and cost effectiveness, but caregivers and programs need recognition and support to ensure people understand their options. A 2018 Bureau of Labor Statistics report indicated the average healthcare support worker made $28,720, and a Paraprofessional Healthcare Institute study shows homecare workers average $13,300 a year. Increased pay would help retain and attract qualified caregivers. Direct-support professionals are needed to reduce HCBS waitlists for safe and effective services.

More people are experiencing the positive impact of HCBS. Prioritizing this option can reduce strains on local healthcare systems while reducing stress and financial burdens on families. Funding can help inform people of their choices, get them enrolled and expand benefits for participants. It can also help cover transition costs from institutional settings to an individual’s home, helping remove the cost barrier.

The American Rescue Plan has allocated more funding for HCBS programs nationwide and participants and caregivers have the opportunity to influence their state and local representatives on how to best improve the program in their areas.

COVID-19 took long-term care providers by surprise. By learning from experience and working to expand access to HCBS, families and caregivers will have better choice and control to minimize impacts next time.

2021-09-01T07:31:00

(BPT) – Did you know that the leading cause of blindness and low vision in the United States is age-related eye diseases?^[1] Approximately 2 million people are living with Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Wet AMD), a retinal disease that affects a person’s central vision, and this number is expected to double by 2050.^[2]

Teresa is one of the millions of people living with Wet AMD. She first noticed something odd about her vision when she was driving to meet friends to play cards. The streetlights looked like stars, and the headlights of oncoming traffic were blurred. She tried cleaning her glasses and using her windshield wipers, but it didn’t help it. Teresa was afraid. She had seen her mother and brother struggle with vision loss, and it felt like her worst nightmare may be coming true.

Although she felt scared and confused, she quickly made an appointment with her eye doctor. At the appointment, Teresa learned that blurriness is one of the symptoms that may indicate a retinal disease, like Wet AMD, along with wavy lines, blind spots or patches, and colors that look dull or washed out. She also learned how to monitor her vision using an Amsler Grid. Her doctor told her there were treatment options that were a part of a class of medicines called anti-VEGF agents administered by injection into the eye. During her treatment journey, her doctor prescribed EYLEA^® (aflibercept) Injection, one of these options. Teresa was nervous about receiving injections, but she couldn’t imagine the possibility of losing her vision and how that could affect her life.

“Sight is my biggest motivator,” she said. “What would you do without sight? It’s very important to me.”

EYLEA is a prescription medicine administered by injection into the eye. Patients should not use EYLEA if they have an infection in or around the eye, eye pain or redness, or known allergies to any of the ingredients in EYLEA, including aflibercept. Please see additional Important Safety Information below, including link to Full Prescribing Information.

For the past 10 years, Teresa has been receiving anti-VEGF injections recommended for her Wet AMD. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, she never missed an appointment. Her EYLEA treatment was one of the things that remained constant. As the country begins to reopen, she is excited to get back to the things she loves to do. Eye injections have become a part of her health routine.

Teresa knows how important it is for people to detect Wet AMD and get treated when diagnosed. She now encourages her friends to go to the eye doctor if they notice any changes in their vision. Teresa still thinks of her mother and brother’s experience with vision loss and, for her, it is a reminder of the importance of her treatments.

“I know a lot of people my age who talk about having low vision and I encourage all of them to go see their doctor and get screened. Be positive, life goes on. I always think, ‘It could be worse,’” says Teresa. “It is important to look forward and appreciate the positives in life.”

If you or someone you know may be experiencing signs of Wet AMD or other retinal diseases like Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) or Diabetic Macular Edema (DME), which could lead to severe vision loss, be sure to speak with your doctor about potential treatment options like EYLEA. EYLEA has several financial assistance programs available to help eligible patients with the cost of EYLEA. Check out www.eylea.us to learn more.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

• EYLEA (aflibercept) Injection is a prescription medicine administered by injection into the eye. You should not use EYLEA if you have an infection in or around the eye, eye pain or redness, or known allergies to any of the ingredients in EYLEA, including aflibercept.

• Injections into the eye with EYLEA can result in an infection in the eye and retinal detachment (separation of retina from back of the eye) can occur. Inflammation in the eye has been reported with the use of EYLEA.

• In some patients, injections with EYLEA may cause a temporary increase in eye pressure within 1 hour of the injection. Sustained increases in eye pressure have been reported with repeated injections, and your doctor may monitor this after each injection.

• There is a potential but rare risk of serious and sometimes fatal side effects, related to blood clots, leading to heart attack or stroke in patients receiving EYLEA.

• The most common side effects reported in patients receiving EYLEA were increased redness in the eye, eye pain, cataract, vitreous (gel-like substance) detachment, vitreous floaters, moving spots in the field of vision, and increased pressure in the eye.

• You may experience temporary visual changes after an EYLEA injection and associated eye exams; do not drive or use machinery until your vision recovers sufficiently.

• Contact your doctor right away if you think you might be experiencing any side effects, including eye pain or redness, light sensitivity, or blurring of vision, after an injection.

• For additional safety information, please talk to your doctor and see the full Prescribing Information for EYLEA.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

INDICATIONS

EYLEA^® (aflibercept) Injection 2 mg (0.05 mL) is a prescription medicine approved for the treatment of patients with Wet Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), Macular Edema following Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO), Diabetic Macular Edema (DME), and Diabetic Retinopathy (DR).

Please click for full Prescribing Information.

2021-08-31T16:47:00

(BPT) – Nine patient advocacy groups partner to educate about ILD on September 15, 2021

It’s very possible you’ve never heard of interstitial lung disease (ILD), despite the more than 200 types of ILD that affect over 250,000 Americans. That’s why nine patient advocacy organizations have partnered to raise awareness for ILDs with the first-ever ILD Day, September 15, 2021.

What is Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)?

ILD is the umbrella term used for a large group of diseases characterized by inflammation and/or scarring in the lungs. The inflammation and scarring in the lungs make it difficult to breathe and get oxygen to the bloodstream, and the damage caused by ILD can be irreversible and worsen over time. Unfortunately, there are more than 50,000 new cases of ILD diagnosed annually in the U.S.

“Sadly, awareness of ILD remains very low, despite the fact that the disease is so prevalent,” said William T. Schmidt, president and CEO of the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation. “It is essential that we know the facts and risk factors to help promote understanding of this devastating disease, raise funds for vital research, and lead to better treatments and improved quality of life. Because many of the symptoms are similar to other common respiratory illnesses, it can be difficult to pinpoint that your experience may be an indication of something greater, like ILD.”

ILD Symptoms and Risk Factors

Difficult to diagnose, ILD can be debilitating and, in some cases, incurable. Causes of ILD include the use of certain medications, radiation to the chest, autoimmune diseases, environmental and occupational exposures. ILD is more common in older adults, but can affect people of any age, including children.

Shortness of breath is a common symptom of ILD, along with dry cough, fatigue and weakness, chest discomfort, “clubbing” of the fingertips, loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), which has no known cause, is one of the most common forms of ILD. Patients with some diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, myositis, dermatomyositis and polymyositis (DM and PM), sarcoidosis and Sjögren’s syndrome have an increased risk of developing an ILD and should speak with their doctor.

Take Action

If you have any of these diseases, symptoms or risk factors, talk with your doctor about the possibility of developing ILD. Remember: advocating for your health is essential to maximizing treatment options and quality of life.

ILD Day is presented by a collaboration of nine organizations including the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, Arthritis Foundation, The Myositis Association, Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research, PF Warriors, Scleroderma Foundation, Scleroderma Research Foundation, Sjögren’s Foundation, and Wescoe Foundation for Pulmonary Fibrosis, who have partnered to help individuals recognize the importance of today through media outreach, social media communications, an educational webinar for patients on Sept. 15, and a survey to help researchers better understand existing awareness. ILD Day is supported by funding from Boehringer Ingelheim, a leading research-driven biopharmaceutical company.

For more information about ILD, visit www.ILDDay.org.

2021-08-29T06:01:00

(BPT) – Falling doesn’t have to be a normal part of aging. This is good news, given the consequences of a fall. Just ask Mike Berning, an older adult who suffered a severe fall after trying to change a lightbulb in his home. His injury resulted in extended, expensive and difficult physical therapy, and it took him nearly six months to walk again without a limp. Not only was Berning’s fall hard on him, it was hard on his wife, as she was his primary caregiver.

Falls remain the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older adults and can significantly impact quality of life. When adults over 60 fall, it can lead to fears about leaving home, social isolation, depression, and costly medical treatment. While Berning has since recovered, he wants everyone to know how dangerous a fall can be.

“A fall can take a lot out of you emotionally, physically and financially,” Berning said. “Don’t make the mistake I made. Seek help when you need it. And if you know someone who is at risk, don’t ignore the warning signs.”

If you or someone you know is worried about falling, take the Falls Free CheckUp from the National Council on Aging (NCOA). It can help determine your risk level for falling. After answering 12 simple questions, you will receive a personalized risk score and some practical prevention tips.

While many of the questions deal with more visible signs, others may catch you by surprise. Here are a few lesser-known red flags that you may be at risk for falling:

1. You take certain medications

Antidepressants, opioids, medicines for epilepsy, sleep medications and even high blood pressure medications can cause daytime sleepiness, dizziness, reduced alertness and delayed reaction times. For some older adults, these effects could cause them to fall, especially if they’re on too high a dose, are taking 3 or more medications and have multiple ongoing diseases. Your primary care doctor or pharmacist can provide guidance on appropriate medication and give recommendations based on your situation.

2. You’re worried about falling

For some older adults, a fear of falling can end up hurting them more than helping them. Worries may cause them to scale back on physical activities they enjoy, which can weaken their muscles and reduce balance, flexibility and endurance.

To get out of the fear mindset, Beverly Cannizaro, an exercise instructor in Arlington, VA, recommends doing exercises that promote balance. “I’ve had two family members endure falls,” Cannizaro said. “It wasn’t a pleasant experience for either of them, and I don’t want others to suffer the same way they did. Anything from sit-to-stand exercises, tai chi and heel-to-toe walking can help keep their balance and strength intact.”

3. You rush to the toilet

If you frequent the bathroom at all hours, your chances of falling can be quite high, especially if you’re already unsteady on your feet. Home hazards such as clutter or other objects on the floor or dark hallways can also make walking to the bathroom unsafe. Make sure there is a clear path from the bed to the bathroom. Use a nightlight or sensor lights. Also make sure there aren’t any objects or furniture you could trip over. If you have to use the stairs, look into accommodations like stair lifts and always hold onto handrails.

Knowing what to do is half the battle

If you scored four points or higher on NCOA’s Falls Free CheckUp, you may be considered at high risk for falling. If that’s the case, educate yourself on the steps you can take to keep yourself and/or your older family members safe. September 20-24 is Falls Prevention Awareness Week, sponsored each year by NCOA. It’s a great opportunity to check your risk, so you can live your life worry- and falls-free.

For more information, check out www.ncoa.org/Falls.