Fall Prevention

Falls, dizziness and loss of balance are among the most common reasons that seniors seek help from an elder care specialist (geriatrician). There are many possible reasons that a person may be having problems with balance, and diagnosing the type of balance disorder that’s in play can be difficult – but doing so is essential in order to arrive at the appropriate treatment plan. Preventing falls starts with an assessment of the patient’s risk factors, including asking whether they have fallen one or more times over the past year, whether they have problems walking or with their balance, whether medications they are currently taking make them feel dizzy, and what, if any, chronic medical problems they currently have. Your doctor will also carry out a complete physical examination so he or she can assess your mobility, cognitive function, joint flexibility, leg muscle strength, cardiovascular health, visual acuity, foot health, the kind of shoes you typically wear, and current medications.