Fall Prevention Week 2026: Take the fall risk assessment and review your medications
It’s Fall Prevention Week. Are you 65 or older? Find out in three minutes how high your risk of falling is. The online fall risk test gives you immediate advice. We’re here to help if you have any questions about your results or your medications.
What does the fall risk test say?
Start here: at Testjevalrisico.nl, the test from VeiligheidNL. You’ll answer questions about falling, fear of falling, and difficulty moving. The test is anonymous and takes about three minutes. Write down the results and the recommendations so you can discuss them later. The results are an initial assessment, not a diagnosis.
Does the test show that your risk is elevated? Discuss the results with your primary care physician. They will investigate possible causes, such as dizziness, poor vision, or difficulty walking. Also ask which exercise programs are right for you.
What types of exercises are available? Check out the (PDF). Discuss together which program suits your situation best.
Can medications increase your risk of falling?
Yes, some medications can make you drowsy or dizzy. Examples include sleep aids and sedatives such as temazepam and oxazepam, or strong pain relievers like oxycodone. Medications for high blood pressure can cause dizziness when standing up in some people. The combination of medications also plays a role.
Did you know that a sleep aid can still have an effect the next morning? You may not notice this until you get out of bed. If you need to use the restroom at night, drowsiness and unsteady legs can also be factors. Please discuss this with us if you’re taking a sleep aid; do not change the time you take it on your own.
Are you unsteady, have you nearly fallen, or are you dizzy after starting a new medication or changing the dose? Let us know. Be sure to mention any over-the-counter medications and supplements during your visit. Do not stop taking prescribed medications on your own: sometimes you need to taper off gradually.
Another surprising point: even medications you’ve been taking for years can later contribute to falls. Your body changes as you age, and sometimes medications have a longer-lasting effect. That’s why, after a fall or if you’re unsteady on your feet, it makes sense to review not just a new medication but your entire medication list.
What can we do for you?
Bring your medication list with you or ask us for one. We’ll review which medications might cause dizziness or drowsiness. During a medication review, we’ll discuss all your medications in more detail. If we make any changes, we’ll coordinate them with your primary care physician. We know you, your doctor knows you, and you know us. This way, you receive personalized care at your trusted neighborhood pharmacy.
A medication review is very helpful. Together, we’ll determine which medications you need, whether the dosage is still appropriate, and whether a combination of medications is making you drowsy or dizzy. If there’s a clearly increased risk of falling, we’ll also investigate other causes, such as muscle strength, balance, and vision.
What can you do yourself?
Take a look around your home today: are there loose rugs or cords lying around? Is the path to the bathroom well-lit at night? Wear shoes that fit securely. Exercise your muscles and balance regularly. Have you already fallen, or do you feel less confident walking? Discuss this with your family doctor.
Would you like to save these tips or share them with someone? (PDF).
You can buy non-slip materials or a walking cane without a prescription. Ask which option is right for you. Medications such as temazepam and oxycodone require a prescription. We explain how to use them safely. You can often arrange a refill or ask a question about your medications online through your pharmacy.
Want to know more? Read the and the .
Questions?
Feel free to ask. We’re happy to help.
Sources
VeiligheidNL, Thuisarts.nl, Apotheek.nl
