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Fall Prevention: Balance and Strength Exercises for Older Adults

From John Hopkins Medicine; Reviewed by Lora Stutzman, PT

Falls can have very serious consequences as we age. Each year, more than 25 percent of adults 65 or older have a fall, and 3 million are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Fall Risks

The risk of falling in older adults is usually related to combination of factors, including:

Balance and/or walking problems. Balance can be affected by vision changes, vestibular problems and altered sensation in the feet.
The use of multiple medications. Studies indicate that when individuals take five or more medicines, the risk of falls increases.
Home hazards (including dim lighting and trip hazards)
Positional low blood pressure (such as orthostatic hypotension, when blood pressure drops upon standing.
Feet and footwear issues

Falls often occur in the bathroom when sitting or standing from the toilet or shower, or at night in a dark bedroom when getting up quickly and tripping on the way to the bathroom.

Exercises to Prevent Falls

While it’s not possible to completely prevent a fall, exercises that focus on balance and strength training can reduce the risk of falling. “We treat elderly adults for injuries sustained from falls, and other patients who feel unsteady while walking or standing and are fearful of falling,” says Lora Stutzman, a physical therapist with the Johns Hopkins Rehabilitation Network. “These exercises can help improve balance and build strength to help prevent future falls.”

For older adults, activities such as squatting, standing up from a chair and walking may be difficult or cause them to feel unsteady, which increases their risk of falling. The following exercises are intended for those who have a low risk of fall and are able to stand on their own without support from others. Always talk to your doctor or physical therapist first before starting new exercises, especially if you have weak balance.

Stutzman demonstrates two exercises below.

Sit-to-Stand Exercise

The sit-to-stand exercise builds leg strength and improves body mechanics and balance, which are all important in reducing falls.

1. Start by sitting on a sturdy chair of standard height, and make sure that it won’t slide or roll. You should be able to sit comfortably with your feet flat on the ground. Have a sturdy support surface in front of you, such as a countertop, so that you can reach to it for support if you start to feel unsteady when standing. Scoot forward so your buttocks is positioned at the front of the seat.

2. Lean your chest forward over your toes, shifting your body weight forward. Squeeze your gluteal muscles and slowly rise to a stable standing position.

3. Slowly sit back down to the starting position and repeat 10 times.

4. If necessary, place your hands on the arms or seat of the chair and push through your hands to help stand and sit. The goal is to not use your hands at all.

Perform 10 repetitions, twice a day. For an advanced version, hold hand weights to add resistance.

If you have pain in your knees, back or hips, discontinue and talk to your doctor or physical therapist.

Balance Exercise

This series of exercises helps if your balance is unsteady. Make sure you have someone with you in case you lose balance.

To begin, stand in a corner or have a kitchen counter in front of you to reach out to in case you start losing balance.

1. Feet apart: Stand with feet about shoulder-width apart, eyes open, and hold steady for 10 seconds, working your way up to 30 seconds.

If you find yourself swaying or reaching for the wall or counter frequently, just keep working on this exercise until you can do it with minimal swaying or support. Once you can hold this position firmly for 30 seconds, move on to the next exercise.

2. Feet together: Stand with feet together, eyes open, and hold steady 10 seconds, working your way up to 30 seconds.

Once you can do this exercise for 30 seconds with minimal swaying or support, move on to the next one.

3. One foot: Stand on one foot, eyes open, and hold steady 10 seconds, working up to 30 seconds. Switch to the other foot.

4. Eyes closed: If you can perform the first three exercises safely and with little support, try to do each one with your eyes closed. Hold for 10 seconds, working up to 30 seconds.

The goal for each exercise is to hold the position for 10 seconds and progress to 30 seconds, five repetitions (including five per leg on the one-foot exercise), two times a day.

Additional Steps to Prevent Falls

Remember, it’s important to talk to your doctor or physical therapist about fall prevention.

Discuss medications and changes in your exercise routine.
Tell your doctor if you fall.
Ask a friend or family member to help check your home for trip hazards.

“Keep in mind,” adds Stutzman, “it is always best to have company at home with you while exercising for safety and supervision and in case you need help.”

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𝐁𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡

Staying physically active isn’t just good for your body, it’s one of the most powerful things you can do for your mental and emotional health, too.

Here’s something that surprises many people: if you have a Medicare Advantage plan, it may already include a fitness membership benefit – meaning you could have access to gym classes, fitness programs, or even home workout kits at little or no extra cost. And if you’re ever injured from a fall or accident, a hospital indemnity plan can help cover out-of-pocket costs that your primary coverage doesn’t fully pay for. It’s a layer of protection many people wish they’d known about sooner. If you’re interested in learning more or have questions about your coverage, we are here to help!

𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞: Your plan may include fitness benefits like SilverSneakers, Silver&Fit, or Renew Active – giving you access to gyms and fitness classes at no extra cost.

𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐎𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭: You’re covered for an Annual Wellness Visit, which includes a fall risk assessment and a personalized prevention plan at no cost. Have you scheduled yours this year?

𝐀𝐬𝐤 𝐦𝐞 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐬: If a fall or injury leads to a hospital stay, a hospital indemnity plan can provide a daily cash benefit to help cover the costs Medicare doesn’t fully pay. It’s an affordable way to protect yourself.

𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐦𝐞!

𝑪𝒚𝒏𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒂 𝑯𝒂𝒓𝒓𝒊𝒔—𝑯𝒂𝒓𝒓𝒊𝒔 𝑰𝒏𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝑨𝒈𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒚—(𝟵𝟯𝟳) 𝟯𝟴𝟳-𝟲𝟲𝟳𝟮

𝐁𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡 Read More »

Welcoming Alex to the harris insurance agency family

Welcome Back, Alli and Alex! Let’s Celebrate Their New Journey!

Our Office Administrator, Alli Entingh, is now Alli Blakely. We wish you and your new husband many blessings on your life together.

Welcoming Alex to the harris insurance agency family Read More »

Insurance Coverage for Colorectal Cancer Screening

By the American Cancer Society

The American Cancer Society (ACS) believes that all people should have access to cancer screenings, without regard to health insurance coverage.

People should have the option of screening

Limitations on coverage should not keep someone from the benefits of early detection of cancer. ACS supports policies that give all people access to and coverage of early detection tests for cancer. Such policies should be age- and risk-appropriate and based on current scientific evidence as outlined in the American Cancer Society Guideline for Colorectal Cancer Screening.

Federal law

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires both private insurers and Medicare to cover the costs of all colorectal cancer screening tests that are recommended by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). The law stipulates that there should be no out-of-pocket costs for patients, such as co-pays or deductibles, for these screening tests. But the definition of a “screening” test can sometimes be confusing, as discussed below.

The USPSTF currently recommends that people at average risk should start colorectal cancer screening at age 45.

Private health insurance coverage for colorectal cancer screening

The Affordable Care Act requires health plans that started on or after September 23, 2010, to cover colorectal cancer screening tests recommended by the USPSTF, which includes a range of test options. In most cases there should be no out-of-pocket costs (such as co-pays or deductibles) for these tests.

For people who choose to be screened with colonoscopy

Many people choose to be screened with colonoscopy. While it might not be right for everyone, it can have some advantages, such as only needing to be done once every 10 years. And if the doctor sees something abnormal during the colonoscopy, it can be biopsied or removed at that time, most likely without the need for any other test.

Although many private insurance plans cover the costs of colonoscopy as a screening test, you still might be charged for some services. Review your health insurance plan for specific details, including if your doctor is on your insurance company’s list of “in-network” providers. If the doctor is not in the plan’s network, you might have to pay more out-of-pocket. Call your insurer if you have a question or aren’t sure about something.

Soon after the ACA became law, some insurance companies considered a colonoscopy to no longer be just a “screening” test if a polyp was removed during the procedure. It would then be a “diagnostic” test, and would therefore be subject to co-pays and deductibles. However, the US Department of Health and Human Services has clarified that removal of a polyp is an integral part of a screening colonoscopy, and therefore patients with private insurance should not have to pay out-of-pocket for it (although this does not apply to Medicare, as discussed below).

Before you get a screening colonoscopy, ask your insurance company how much (if anything) you should expect to pay for it. Find out if this amount could change based on what’s found during the test. This can help you avoid surprise costs. If you do have large bills afterward, you may be able to appeal the insurance company’s decision.

For people who choose to be screened with a different test

Test options other than colonoscopy are also available, and people might choose one of these other tests for a variety of reasons. Any screening test recommended by the USPSTF should be covered, with no out-of-pocket costs such as co-pays or deductibles. But if you have a screening test other than colonoscopy and the result is positive (abnormal), you will need to have a colonoscopy. Some insurers consider this to be a diagnostic (not screening) colonoscopy, so you may have to pay the usual deductible and co-pay.

Before you get a screening test, check with your insurance provider to find out:

If it is covered
What it might mean if you need a colonoscopy as a result of the test and
How much (if anything) you should expect to pay for it

This can help you avoid surprise costs. If you do have large bills afterward, you may be able to appeal the insurance company’s decision.

Medicare coverage for colorectal cancer screening

Medicare covers an initial preventive physical exam for all new Medicare beneficiaries. It must be done within one year of enrolling in Medicare. The “Welcome to Medicare” physical includes referrals for preventive services already covered under Medicare, including colorectal cancer screening tests.

If you’ve had Medicare Part B for longer than 12 months, a yearly “wellness” visit is covered without any cost. This visit is used to develop or update a personalized prevention plan to prevent disease and disability. Your health care provider should discuss a screening schedule (like a checklist) with you for preventive services you should have, including colorectal cancer screening.

What colorectal cancer screening tests does Medicare cover?

Medicare covers the following tests, generally starting at age 45:

Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) or fecal immunochemical test (FIT) once every 12 months.

Stool DNA test (Cologuard or Cologuard Plus) every 3 years for people ages 45 to 85 who do not have symptoms of colorectal cancer and who do not have an increased risk of colorectal cancer.

Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 4 years, but not within 10 years of a previous colonoscopy.

Colonoscopy

Once every 2 years for those at high risk (regardless of age)
Once every 10 years for those who are at average risk
Four years after a flexible sigmoidoscopy for those who are at average risk

Double-contrast barium enema if a doctor determines that its screening value is equal to or better than flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy:

Once every 2 years for those who are at high risk
Once every 4 years for those who are at average risk

At this time, Medicare does not cover the cost of virtual colonoscopy (CT colonography).

If you have questions about your costs, including deductibles or co-pays, it’s best to speak with your insurer.

What would someone on Medicare expect to pay for a colorectal cancer screening test?

FOBT/FIT: Covered at no cost for those age 45 or older* (no co-insurance or Part B deductible)
Stool DNA test (Cologuard or Cologuard Plus): Covered at no cost* for those age 45 to 85 as long as they are not at increased risk of colorectal cancer and don’t have symptoms of colorectal cancer (no co-insurance or Part B deductible)

It’s important to know that if you have a positive result on a screening FOBT, FIT, or stool DNA lab test, Medicare will cover the cost of a follow-on screening colonoscopy. You will not have to pay for this test as long as your doctor or other qualified health care provider accepts assignment. However, if a polyp or other tissue is found and removed during the follow-up screening colonoscopy, you might have to pay 15% of the Medicare-approved amount for your doctor’s services.

Colonoscopy: Covered at no cost* at any age (no co-insurance, co-payment, or Part B deductible) when the test is done for screening. Note: If the test results in a biopsy or removal of a growth, it’s no longer a “screening” test, and you will be charged the 15% co-insurance and/or a co-pay (but you don’t have to pay the deductible).
Flexible sigmoidoscopy: Covered at no cost* (no co-insurance, co-payment, or Part B deductible) when the test is done for screening. Note: If the test results in a biopsy or removal of a growth, it’s no longer a “screening” test, and you will be charged the 15% co-insurance and/or a co-pay (but you don’t have to pay the Part B deductible).
Double-contrast barium enema: You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the doctor services. If the test is done in an outpatient hospital department or ambulatory surgical center, you also have a hospital co-payment (but you don’t have to pay the Part B deductible).

If you’re getting a screening colonoscopy (or flexible sigmoidoscopy), be sure to find whether you might have to pay for any related charges. This can help you avoid surprise costs.

Ask how much you will have to pay if a polyp is removed or a biopsy is done. You may have a co-pay of 15% of the Medicare-approved amount for the doctor’s services.
You may also have to pay for the bowel prep kit unless your Medicare Part D or Medicare Advantage plan covers the cost.
Depending on where your colonoscopy is done, you may have to pay 15% co-insurance for a facility fee.

*This service is covered at no cost as long as the doctor accepts assignment (the amount Medicare pays as the full payment). Doctors that do not accept assignment are required to tell you up front.

Medicaid coverage for colorectal cancer screening

States are authorized to cover colorectal screening under their Medicaid programs. But unlike Medicare, there’s no federal assurance that all state Medicaid programs must cover colorectal cancer screening in people without symptoms. Medicaid coverage for colorectal cancer screening varies by state. Some states cover fecal occult blood testing (FOBT), while others cover colorectal cancer screening if a doctor determines the test is medically necessary. In some states, coverage varies according to which Medicaid managed care plan a person is enrolled in.

Insurance Coverage for Colorectal Cancer Screening Read More »

What Discounts Can Seniors Get?

By the National Council on Aging

Far too many of us are feeling the squeeze of inflation these days. And even with the federal government shutdown now resolved, the financial strain it created—combined with high grocery prices and pressure on programs like SNAP—makes it harder to feel secure.

Every opportunity to save money helps. And age-related discounts offer an easy way to do it.

The challenge? Not all of these deals are widely advertised—so you could be missing out on valuable opportunities to stretch your budget.

Worry not, because we’ve done all the legwork for you! In this guide, you’ll find 40+ fantastic senior discounts you can take advantage of right now. From groceries and other daily essentials to entertainment and travel, these deals can help you get more for your money.

Browse our list below.

Restaurant and entertainment discounts:

AMC Theaters: Adults age 60+ receive special senior pricing. Simply ask at the register or select “senior pricing” when buying tickets online.
Dairy Queen: Senior discounts of up to 10% are available at participating locations.
Denny’s: Older adults save with their age 55+ menu, and AARP members get 15% off regular menu items.
IHOP: Discounted prices are available with their age 55+ menu.
Chili’s: Seniors get 10% off their check every day at participating locations.
Krispy Kreme: Customers age 50+ may enjoy a 10% discount in-store; it depends on location so it’s best to call ahead or ask at the register before ordering.
Outback Steakhouse: AARP members get 10% off food and (nonalcoholic) beverages at participating U.S. locations. You must show your AARP card when paying or picking up your online order.
McDonald’s: Senior discounts are available at participating locations; you may specifically need to ask.
Bonefish Grill: AARP cardholders get 10% off in-store, in-app, and online orders (excluding delivery and catering).
DoorDash: AARP members get 25% off their first order of $15 or more.

Good to know: Some Area Agencies on Aging partner with local restaurants to offer discounted meal tickets for older adults. (See an example in Vermont). It’s worth checking with your local senior center to ask about similar programs in your area. (The national Eldercare Locator can help you find yours).

Retail discounts:

Amazon Prime: Customers get up to a 50% discount on a monthly Prime membership if they receive government assistance, including SNAP, Medicaid, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Kohl’s: Older adults age “60 or better” (we love this!) can take advantage of their 15% senior discount every Wednesday.
Goodwill: Most stores offer a weekly senior discount of 15-25% for shoppers age 55+. Days and discounts vary; be sure to ask at your participating location.
LensCrafters: AARP members receive special discounts on lenses, frames, exams, and more with an AARP membership.
Michaels: Customers age 55+ get 10% off every purchase, including sales items, every day. You need to sign up for a Michaels Rewards account to take advantage of these savings.
Ross Stores: Customers age 55+ get 10% off in-store purchses every Tuesday.
JOANN: On Senior Discount Day, adults age 55+ save 20%.
Pep Boys: Customers age 55+ get 10% off their in-store purchase.
Valvoline Instant Oil Change: AARP members get 15% off their oil change.
UPS Store: AARP members get 5% off UPS shipping and up to 15% off eligible products and services.
Walgreens: Senior Day is the first Tuesday of every month. Adults age 55+ who are enrolled in the MyWalgreens rewards program get up to 20% off their purchase.
Walmart+: Older adults with AARP can save $20 on an annual Walmart+ membership. People of any age who qualify for SNAP, Medicaid, and other government benefits programs can enroll for 50% off the monthly or annual plan.

Grocery store discounts:

Albertsons: Older adults get 10% off on the first Wednesday of the month at participating locations.
Fred Meyer: Adults age 55+ receive10% off on select items on the first Tuesday of every month.
Harris Teeter: Shoppers age 60+ with a Very Important Customer (VIC) card get a 5% Club60 senior discount every Thursday. Some exclusions apply.
Hy-Vee: Participating locations offer a 5%-10% senior discount for shoppers age 55+, usually on a specific day that varies by location. Check with your local store to learn more.

Good to know: In addition to formal senior discounts, there are many other strategies you can use to save money on groceries—no matter where you shop. Start today with these 11 practical tips).

Hotel discounts:

Best Western: Guests age 55+ can enjoy discounted room rates at select locations.
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts: Older adults age 60+ enjoy special savings on Standard Rate rooms. Use the senior discount portal to book online or ask for the senior rate when making a reservation by phone.
Choice Hotel: AARP cardholders and those age 60+ can receive a 10% discount on advance reservations.
Marriot Hotels: Guests age 62+ save at least 10% on Marriott hotel stays.
Motel 6: Guests age 60+ get a special Senior Rate of 5% off best available nightly rates.

Airline and travel discounts:

British Airways: AARP members can receive $65 off on economy standard and premium economy fares for a limited time.
United Airlines: Older passengers can receive a discount for select destinations.To find out this discount applies to your flight, choose “Senior 65+” when booking online or ask your travel representative.
Carnival: Adults age 55+ can take advantage of exclusive cruise deals. Note that these deals aren’t typically advertised and are “subject to availability.” It’s worth calling the cruise line directly; you may also find a “55+” fare option online.
America the Beautiful Senior Pass: Adults age 62+ pay just $20 for an annual senior pass or $80 for a lifetime pass, which can be used at national parks and federal recreational lands. (Be sure to check the National Park Service website for service reductions or other impacts before you plan a visit).
Amtrak: Adults age 65+ get 10% off most rail fares.
Hertz: Adults age 50+ get up to 20% off car rental base rates.
Royal Caribbean: Deals are available on select cruises for adults age 55+.

Mobile plans discounts:

AT&T: Although AT&T has discontinued its discount program for AARP members, the carrier does offer exclusive savings for customers age 55 and over. Pricing depends on where you live and you need to contact the company to check your eligibility.
Consumer Cellular: AARP members exclusively can get two lines of unlimited talk, text, and data for $55 per month, plus an extended, 45-day risk-free guarantee and 30% off select accessories.
Mint Mobile: Mint 55+ offers introductory plans with unlimited talk and text starting at $15 per month. After three months, you can choose monthly plans for as little as $20.
T-Mobile: With their discounted senior plans (age 55+), two unlimited lines start at $60 a month. Some plans also include perks like streaming channel subscriptions and a free AAA membership.
Verizon: Wireless customers age 55+ can save $20 per month for one line or $30 per month for two lines on an Unlimited Welcome plan. This plan is only available for Florida residents, however. If you’re outside Florida, it’s worth checking Verizon’s other discount plans to see if you qualify for one.

Good to know: If your income is at or less than 135% of the federal poverty guidelines ($29,214 per year, or $2,434.50 per month, for a two-person household in 2026), you may qualify for the Lifeline program. This program provides a monthly stipend to help you pay for phone or internet service.

And a final word

It’s helpful to keep in mind that many retailers and service providers don’t announce their special discounts and perks for adults age 55 and over. This includes independent and locally owned shops. If you’re at a restaurant or grocery store, a movie theater or an auto repair shop, it’s well worth asking for the “senior rate” or “senior discount.” If you’re signing up for a new service—like a cell phone plan or a streaming channel—contact the customer care department first to do the same. The worst anyone can say is, “no, we don’t offer that.” On the flip side, you may unexpectedly find yourself with a little extra money in your pocket.

What Discounts Can Seniors Get? Read More »