7 days ago2 min read

1 in 3 Seniors Will Fall This Year

Physical Therapy Can Make Sure You're Not One of Them

Falls are a big deal.

They can cause injuries and make it hard to live on your own. They can also make you afraid of falling again. This fear might make you less active, which can make you weaker and more likely to fall. It's a tough cycle to break.

Falls aren't a normal part of aging. Physical therapy can reduce your risk and help you stay independent. Here are 5 ways your PT can help.

1. Creating a personalized exercise plan

Being active helps prevent falls. Your PT will make an exercise plan just for you, based on what your needs and what you like to do. This should be fun! Think about going on walks, dancing, aquatic exercise, or practicing yoga.

2. Making Your Home Safer

Many falls happen at home. Simple changes like removing tripping hazards and using night lights can make a big different. Your physical therapist can help you with these and recommend other modifications to make your home safer.

3. Strength and Balance Exercises

Strong muscles and good balance are key to preventing falls. Your PT will show you specific exercises that help with both.

4. Addressing underlying health issues

Falls are often the result of multiple factors. Your PT can work with your other doctors to address things like vision problems, heart issues, incontinence, or diabetes that might make you more likely to fall.

5. Help you find community programs

Staying active is easier and more fun with others. Your PT can help you find group exercise classes or other programs in your area that will help you stay strong and independent.

Take the first step.

If you're worried about falling, or if you've already had a fall, don't wait to get help. Talk to your PT.

Falling isn't a normal part of getting older. With the right help, you can stay strong, keep your balance, and keep doing the things you love. Physical therapy is a great way to make sure you stay on your feet and stay active and independent.

Take that first step towards better balance and a more active life. Your future self will thank you!

Article provided by: American Physical Therapy Association

References

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