Fall Prevention in Older Adults: The Role of Home Physical Therapy Intervention
Falls are a significant medical concern in our aging population. Every year, one-third of those over the age of 65 fall. An older adult is admitted to the emergency room for a fall every 11 seconds. Even more disturbing, an older adult dies from a fall every 19 minutes.
Changes in strength, flexibility, and balance that occur with age increase the risk of falling. At our Missoula, MT clinic, we will investigate your medical history, symptoms, and the reasons why you are prone to falling to reduce your risk effectively.
What are you waiting for? Element Physical Therapy in Missoula, MT is waiting to take your call, answer your questions, and schedule your physical therapy evaluation. Call us to schedule your assessment with one of our skilled movement specialists.
How can physical therapy help to reduce my risk of falling?
Falls, contrary to popular belief, are not unavoidable. You have the ability to plan for age-related changes and adapt your home and lifestyle to ensure your safety and stability in your golden years. Physical therapy is an excellent resource, and we can address potential risk factors for falls in just a few sessions. Prevention is essential.
“How can I reduce my risk of falling?” you may be wondering. Physical therapy is the answer. Physical therapists assess the components of your balance system and create an individualized treatment plan to get you back on your feet and feeling safe in your own home.
According to ChoosePT, “falls and the fear of falling can limit your ability to live a full and independent life.” Although one out of every four older adults falls each year, falling is not a normal part of aging. You have the ability to lower your risk of falling.”
“Physical therapists are movement experts who improve quality of life through hands-on care, patient education, and prescribed movement,” according to the website.
You can contact a physical therapist directly for an evaluation.”
There are several reasons why older people fall, including:
- Vision deficits
- Cardiac/blood pressure changes
- Decreased cognitive function
- Cluttered floors or unexpected obstacles
- Poor lighting on stairs
- Uneven surfaces or unfamiliar surroundings
The American Physical Therapy Association asserts: “A strong body of research supports the physical therapy profession. What we do works.”
How does physical therapy for fall prevention work?
Vision screenings, cognitive tests, vitals assessments at rest and with activity, and assessments of gait, balance, flexibility, and strength may all be part of a physical therapy evaluation. The following are examples of common standardized balance tests:
- Timed Up and Go (TUG)
- Functional Reach
- 6-Minute Walk Test
- Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction on Balance
A discussion of your home layout and daily routine will be an important part of your evaluation to account for routine obstacles and challenges to your balance. You and your home-based physical therapist can walk through your house together, addressing any concerns you both have about your safety and independence.
Based on the findings of this evaluation, one of our in-home physical therapists will create a treatment plan tailored to your specific requirements. These plans are designed to reduce your risk of falling, but they will also help you improve your balance, strength, flexibility, endurance, and overall home safety.
Your physical therapist may also suggest home modifications, such as removing rugs that may cause you to trip or installing a handrail on steps or stairs. Some lifestyle changes, such as having help bringing groceries into the house, may also be suggested.
A walker or cane may be recommended to help stabilize your gait and make walking on uneven surfaces easier and safer.
Are you ready to fight back against your fall risk?
Understanding your risk factors is critical for reducing your fall risk. Our physical therapists are here to help you create a plan that works for you. We will work with you to prevent falls and assist you if you have already been injured as a result of a fall.
If you have a history of falls or have noticed feeling unsteady or dizzy on your feet, contact us to make an appointment with Element Physical Therapy in Missoula, MT. One of our physical therapists will come to your home and assist you in regaining confidence and independence.