At your next doctor’s appointment, let them know about recent falls or close calls you’ve had with falling. Your provider with examine your gait and balance, and may also perform a physical exam. This exam will cover your ability to carry out daily activities, vision and hearing, muscle strength, reflexes and nerve health, blood pressure, medication usage, etc.
They will probably ask you about your memory, risks at home, foot health and footwear, fear of falling, etc.
Certain tests can also be done to assess your risk of falling, including:
- Blood and urine tests
- Balance tests
- Bone densitometry
- Brain imaging
- Memory tests
- Heart tests
- Physical therapy assessment
- Home safety evaluation
It is important to let your doctor know if you have had any falls or close calls in the last 12 months. Let them know if you have trouble walking as well. Falls in older adults can be debilitating and cause serious injury.
If you have any questions, or believe that you are at risk, please call Countryside Neurology at 727-712-1567 for a consultation.
Sources:
“Diagnosis and Tests for Falls Prevention.” American Geriatrics Society | HealthInAging.org, https://www.healthinaging.org/a-z-topic/falls-prevention/tests.
