Balance and Fall Prevention
- Each year, millions of older people—those 65 and older—fall. In fact, more than one out of four older people falls each year, but less than half tell their doctor. Falling once doubles your chances of falling again.
- One out of five falls causes a serious injury such as broken bones or a head injury.
- Each year, 3 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries.
- Over 800,000 patients a year are hospitalized because of a fall injury, most often because of a head injury or hip fracture.
- More than 95% of hip fractures are caused by falling, usually by falling sideways.
- Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
There is also an increased risk of generalized weakness and deconditioning in people ages 80+. As they age, people can sometimes become more sedentary and limit activity due to factors such as chronic pain, medical comorbidities, fear, and other barriers.
Our therapists are trained to address and educate patients on possible conditions and impairments that increase fall risk and help them to modify tasks or implement strategies to improve safety. We utilize various treatments in order to help improve and address barriers that affect balance:
- Exercises to improve strength and endurance in the extremities
- Balance training to improve reaction time and stability
- Addressing gait impairments that affect mobility
- Stretching to improve range of motion in extremities