Use this checklist before making a decision

Reduce fall risks through medication review, vision and hearing care, strength and balance, safer homes, appropriate equipment, and emergency planning. A checklist cannot decide an individual case, but it can prevent missed questions, missing records, and avoidable deadlines.

Decision checklist

  • Report falls, near-falls, dizziness, fainting, weakness, and new balance problems to a clinician.
  • Ask a pharmacist or prescriber to review medicines that may increase fall risk.
  • Check lighting, rugs, cords, steps, bathrooms, handrails, entrances, and frequently used pathways.
  • Use properly fitted footwear, mobility devices, grab bars, and other equipment.
  • Include strength, balance, vision, hearing, and foot care in the prevention plan.
  • Create a way to call for help and practice what to do after a fall.

Information to write down

  • The exact program, provider, company, service, product, or legal document involved.
  • The person’s state, county, ZIP code, coverage, deadlines, accessibility needs, and preferred contact method.
  • Names, dates, confirmation numbers, written notices, estimates, contracts, and appeal instructions.
  • The original source used to verify each important claim.

Questions to ask

  • Which rule or program applies to this exact situation?
  • What is the deadline, and what proves that the request was received?
  • What costs are excluded from the quoted amount?
  • What changes by state, plan, provider, or household?
  • Is there an appeal, grievance, correction, or second-review process?
  • Where is the answer published by the responsible agency?

Official sources

Related information

Within this subject: Updates and Official Changes, Official Help and Trusted Starting Points, Common Mistakes and Warning Signs, State-by-State Differences.

Also review: Assistive Technology, Medical Equipment, and Home Modifications, Chronic Conditions, Prevention, and Healthy Aging, Emergency Preparedness and Accessible Evacuation.

Last reviewed

This checklist was reviewed on 2026-07-30. Verify current rules before acting.