Talking with Your Doctor About Falls

This tip sheet can help you talk with your doctor about the causes and effects of falling, which is a major issue affecting older patients.

Falls are the #1 cause of injury leading to emergency room visits by adults 65 and older!

Some reasons for falling include:

• Health conditions like arthritis, depression, dizziness, low vision, and others
• Decreased strength and balance problems
• Medicine side effects
• Risks in the home such as: rugs and loose cords, or no handrails on stairs or bathtubs.

Stay independent by working with your doctor to prevent falls. Fear of falling is a common worry, and it may be stressful to talk about. Sometimes you may not even know why you have fallen.

Talking about these concerns will help your doctor understand what you need to prevent falls and stay independent. Your doctor can help you understand the reasons for falling and work with you to find the best solutions.

If you’re a patient at HSS, the VOICES 60+ Program can help. Our program has staff and volunteers trained to help you with these and other concerns. We can also refer you to useful resources.

VOICES 60+ is a Department of Social Work Programs and Volunteer Department initiative.

VOICES 60+ Program
Open Monday-Friday
7th floor Rheumatology waiting room
212.774.7072
Contact: Juliette Kleinman, LCSW, 212.774. 2737

Updated: 3/8/2016

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