ety (2001) Panel on Falls Prevenrion has recommended
that physicians identify high-risk
parients (those who have had two falls in the
past year, had one fall with an injury, or who
have gait or balance problems) and administer
a comprehensive clinical assessment to identify
specific risk factors. Such an assessment includes
testing gait, balance, and neurological fiuiction,
reviewing all medications, and asking about the
circumstances ofthe fall. Following this assessment,
the physician develops a tailored medical
management approach, suggests appropriate
intervention strategies, and, if necessary, refers
the parient to appropriate specialists such as
physical therapists or gerontologists.