Take These Simple Steps to Protect Yourself Against Falls

A sudden misstep can happen to anyone, but older people, individuals with chronic health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, or those taking certain medications such as sedatives are more at risk for falls. A single unexpected tumble can change your life, resulting in serious injury or in rare instances even death.

Isao Iwata, MD“It is important to take the time to get a medical evaluation to determine your fall risk, and assess your surroundings and initiate changes to protect yourself from falls,” says Isao Iwata, MD, a primary care doctor with Penn Medicine Princeton Medicine Physicians, the primary and specialty care physician network of Penn Medicine Princeton Health. 

Dr. Iwata, who is board certified in internal medicine and geriatric medicine, which focuses on the special needs of older adults, offers the recommendations above (click on the image for a closer view).

Your doctor may also recommend at-home exercises or physical therapy to help improve your strength and balance. In-person and telehealth programs are available at Princeton Medical Center’s Princeton Rehabilitation. 

 


To find a primary care physician affiliated with Penn Medicine Princeton Health, call 1.888.742.7496, or click here.