1 in 4 adults 

now 65 

will live to 90+

MyMobility Plan

What can you do to stay independent?

Many people make financial plans for retirement, but not everyone plans for 

other changes that may come with age. This includes changes in your 

mobility—your ability to get around. 

There may be a 

time when you still need 

to get around, but can 

no longer drive.

It’s not easy to talk about, but as we get 

older, physical changes can make it 

harder to get around and do things we 

want or need to do—like driving, 

shopping, or doing household chores. 

You might not have mobility problems now, but you could in the future. You 

may even know others who already do—perhaps a parent, relative, friend, or 

neighbor. While it may not be possible to prevent all of these changes, there 

are actions you and your loved ones can take today, and as you age, to help 

keep you safe and independent tomorrow.

Make a plan today.

Stay independent tomorrow.

MySelf MyHome MyNeighborhood

A plan to stay mobile 

in my community

A plan to stay 

independent

A plan to stay

safe at home
MySelf 

o Get a medical eye exam each year. 

Eye problems can increase your risk of 

falling or being in a car crash.

Last Exam Date: 

Next Exam Date:

Staying healthy and managing 

chronic conditions help 

maintain your mobility. 

To start building your plan, 

complete the checklist below.

Strength Activity Balance Activity

Exercise Start Date Exercise Start Date

Chair stand Next Monday Tai Chi Next Monday

MyMobility Tip

Good eyesight is about more than 

20/20 vision. For example, you need 

to see well in the dark to drive safely 

at night. 

Get a medical eye exam each year 

and address any issues.

o Review all your medicines with a

 doctor or pharmacist. 

Certain medicines can have side effects 

that can change your ability to drive, 

walk, or get around safely. 

To learn more, go to: 

https://go.usa.gov/xPADs

o Follow a regular activity program to increase your strength and balance.

Strength and balance activities, done at least 3 times a week, can reduce your risk 

of falling. Other activities, like walking, are good for you, but don’t help prevent 

falls. Visit the National Institute on Aging’s website for suggestions: 

www.go4life.nia.nih.gov/exercises

A plan to stay independent

o Get a physical checkup each year.

Some health issues may increase your 

risk of falling (such as leg weakness 

and balance problems).

Last Exam Date: 

Next Exam Date:
To continue your plan, 

schedule a time to go through 

the following home safety 

checklist to help prevent falls.

Check the FLOORS in each room 

and reduce tripping hazards:

o Keep objects off the floor.

o Remove or tape down rugs.

o Coil or tape cords and wires next

 to the wall and out of the way.

Check the KITCHEN:

o Put often-used items within easy

 reach (about waist level).

o For items not within easy reach,

 always use a step stool and never

 use a chair.

Check the BEDROOMS:

o Use bright light bulbs.

o Place lamps close to the bed where

 they are within reach.

o Put in night-lights to be able to see 

 a path in the dark. For areas that

 don’t have electrical outlets, consider

 battery-operated lights. 

Check inside and outside STAIRS 

and STEPS:

o Check for loose or uneven steps.

 Repair if needed.

o Make sure carpet is firmly attached to

 every step, or remove carpet and

 attach non-slip rubber treads.

o Check for loose or broken handrails.

 Repair if needed.

o Consider installing handrails on both

 sides of the stairs.

o Use bright overhead lighting at the top

 and bottom of the stairs.

o Consider putting light switches at both

 the top and bottom of the stairs.

Check the BATHROOMS:

o Put non-slip rubber mats or self-stick

 strips on the floor of the tub or shower.

o Consider installing grab bars for 

support getting in or out of the tub or 

shower, and up from the toilet.

For more home modification 

information and resources:

https://go.usa.gov/xUEs3

MyHome A plan to stay safe at home

MyMobility Tip

Falls are more likely when wearing inappropriate 

footwear, such as flip flops that don’t cover the heel. 

Wear safe shoes that fit well, have a firm heel to provide 

stability, and have a textured sole to prevent slipping.
Where do I go now?

(Such as doctor, grocery store,

or physical activity class)

How do I get there now?

(Such as drive, get a ride, 

or use public transportation)

How will I get there 

in the future?

(Such as bus, rideshare, or 

ride with a friend)

Meet friends for lunch Drive myself Get a ride from a friend

For more information visit: bit.ly/CDC-MyMobilityPlan

MyNeighborhood A plan to stay mobile in my community

o Find transportation options in your ZIP code:

• Rides in Sight

1-855-607-4337

www.ridesinsight.org

o Consider a driver refresher course.

Finish your plan by filling out 

the table below. 

Think of all the places you go 

and how you get there. 

Then, consider how you would 

get to these same places if you 

couldn’t use your current way. 

MyMobility Tip

Practice safe behaviors, such as always 

wearing a seat belt, as a driver or a 

passenger.

Ride share services can help 

keep you connected to family 

and friends. Staying social helps 

maintain quality of life as you age.

• AARP (888) 687-2277 or www.aarp.org

• AAA (800) 222-4357 or www.aaa.com

Some insurers give a discount on your 

car insurance for taking a course:

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