What to Tell the Doctor
If you know the person you care for has a risk of falling, take the first step in prevention by going to see their doctor. Take a list of all their medicines (prescription and over-the-counter) with you, or bring the medicines with you. Also, if the person has fallen, write down the details for the doctor.
Describe the fall
- Describe when and where the person fell.
- What led to the fall? A slippery floor, a pet running in front of them, failure to see a step? Did the person become dizzy, lose balance or knee gave out?
- Describe any injuries (e.g. bump or cut on the head, pulled muscle, bruises)
- Describe any times when the person almost fell but was able to hold onto something and avoid falling.
The Person’s Health
Tell the doctor if:
- The person has trouble seeing or hearing.
- The person has trouble walking or loses their balance.
- The person has joint pain, numbness in the feet or legs.
- The person has trouble remembering where they are or what they are doing.
- The person has complained of dizziness or lightheadedness.