Fall Prevention

Falls are the leading cause of injury in adults over the age of 65 and a major contributor to hospitalization.  This fall prevention program will identify individuals who are at risk of falling to offer them a multi-disciplinary approach to preventing falls. The goal of having an evaluation by an outpatient physical therapist is to reduce any falls at home or in the community in which serious injury could occur. Working on balance, strengthening or fitting with the proper assistive device are just some of the tools your therapist can help you with. Our goal is to proactively prevent fall instead of reactively treat injuries that you may sustain. Our vestibular specialists can treat the underlying dizziness that may be leading to poor balance. Additionally, patient and caregiver education is provided regarding making simple changes in the home to decrease tripping hazards. 
 

Frequently Asked Question (FAQ’s)     

I have always been clumsy and never had good balance, can therapy really improve this?
Yes- our physical therapists will look at all three of your balance systems (vision, vestibular and somatosensory) and develop a customized balance and strength program to address your specific impairments. 
 
What can I do at home to decrease my risk of falls?

• Remove tripping hazards such as rugs and cords and prevent the home from becoming cluttered. Poor lighting can also increase the risk of falls so make sure your home is adequately lit. 
• Review medication list with your doctor or pharmacist. Dizziness is a side effect of many medications and taking more than three medications has been shown to increase your risk of falls.

Why is my balance worse at night time?
Many people use their vision heavily for balance, instead of their vestibular system or somatosensory (body). When it is dark and difficult to see, people have a harder time keeping their balance and are at an increased likelihood of experiencing a fall.