What to Tell Your 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?
Describe any injuries (such as a bruise or soreness).
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.
Tell the doctor if the person has trouble walking or loses their balance.
Tell the doctor if the person has joint pain, numbness in the feet or legs.
Tell the doctor if the person has trouble remembering where they are or what they are doing.
Tell the doctor if the person has complained of dizziness or lightheadedness.