The percentage of annual falls of those 65 or older living in their residential home is approximately 25 to 35%. Falls are the 6th leading cause of death in those older than 65 and 1st for those older than 80.
Physical and Occupational therapists have two primary responsibilities for helping to prevent falls for their patients:
Identify Risk Factors (perform specialized testing)
Address Risk Factors (provide skilled treatment)
Below are some examples of potential risk factors and possible treatment options that your therapist may provide to help decrease the risk for falls.
Lower body weakness: Strength training specific to large and small muscle groups in the legs and core. Foot/ankle stabilization training
Difficulty with balance: Resistance Training, specialized balance training, gait and agility training, Core Strengthening
Dizziness/Vestibular changes: Assess for Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, Static and Dynamic balance training
Positioning problems when seated and/or W/C modifications: PT/OT will work with a w/c provider to make sure you have the most appropriate w/c.
Decline in memory or ability to problem solve: Safety awareness education, cognitive training, environmental adaptations & modifications
Physical, Occupational, and Speech therapy services play an impactful role in helping to reduce the risk for falls.
Subscribe to POST News
Subscribe to POST News to receive useful health and wellness tips, early access to events, and news about POST physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy services.
תגובות