Balance Rehabilitation and Prevention of Falls
Who would benefit from Safe Strides?
Individuals who have experienced falls due to impaired balance or who are at risk for falls that could result in serious injury.
Why is fall prevention so important?
Falls, especially in the elderly population, can result in serious injury and disability. According to the CDC, every 18 seconds an older adult is treated in an emergency department for a fall and every 35 minutes someone in this population dies as a result of their injuries. For many, fear of falling can cause them to limit their activities, leading to reduced mobility and physical fitness, and increasing their actual risk of falling (Vellas et al 1997). But there are proven strategies that can reduce falls and help older adults to live better and longer.
What does Safe Strides consist of?
Evaluation of balance and fall risk including investigation into the causes of instability and falls.
This includes assessment of strength, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal endurance, static and dynamic balance, gait, vestibular function, set-up of the home environment, and medication review.
Assessment of need for and trial of assistive devices and adaptive equipment.
Educational materials will be provided including a home fall prevention checklist.
Participants will be instructed in an individualized program to improve static standing balance in various positions, on multiple surfaces, and with environmental distractions.
Instruction in a home exercise program for overall strengthening and conditioning to improve stability and endurance.
Progressive balance challenges to include dynamic movements, transfers, and gait so that balance improvements may be carried over into every day activities.
Program duration is estimated at 12 weeks, but may be longer or shorter dependent on a participants initial abilities and progress. Every program is individualized to meet each person’s unique needs.
Goals:
Participants are continually re-assessed over a 12 week period using objective testing measures shown to be reliable and valid to monitor their progress through the program. When each participant has demonstrated sufficient improvement in their ability to maintain both static and dynamic balance and have minimized their risk for falls, they will be transitioned to an independent home program to maintain gains made through our program.
Why choose Family Physical Therapy?
One hour treatment sessions
One-on-one treatment by a Physical Therapy every visit, no PT assistant
Our therapist’s are trained in the most current evaluative measures and treatment interventions
Front door parking
Self-Help Tips:
Exercise regularly! Exercise makes you stronger and improves balance and coordination.
Have a doctor or pharmacist take a look at your list of medications, including over-the-counter medicines. Many can cause dizziness or lightheadedness.
Have your vision checked at least once per year by an eye doctor.
Wear shoes both inside and outside of the house. Avoid being barefoot or wearing slippers.
Improve the lighting in your home by installing fluorescent bulbs which are bright and cost less to use.