- Education for patient and caregiver
- Instruction on self-management of risk factors and disease process
- Medication review and management
- Home safety assessment and emergency education
- Suggestions for home environment modifications
- Therapeutic exercises for improving strength, balance, and endurance
- Vision evaluation and referral for correction
- Interdisciplinary care and nutritional support
- Assessment of need for gait and safety devices
- Restorative therapy (physical, occupational, speech)
- Medical social services
Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults. The statistics from the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are staggering: More than 16,000 adults aged 65 and older die each year from injuries related to falls; almost 2 million others are treated in emergency departments for nonfatal injuries from falls, and more than a fourth of these patients are hospitalized. Many patients who fall often suffer hip fractures or other physical trauma and never return to their pre‐fall level of function.
Falls are not just the result of getting older. Many falls can be prevented. Seniors who stay educated on fall prevention may significantly reduce their risk of taking a spill and landing in the hospital.
- Begin a regular exercise program.
- Make your home safer.
- Have your vision checked.
- Have your healthcare provider review your medicines.
About half of falls occur at home. Follow these suggestions to make your home safer:
- Remove clutter from stairs and places where you walk.
- Remove small throw rugs or use double-sided tape to keep the rugs from slipping.
- Keep items you often use in easy reach (without needing a stepstool).
- Install grab bars next to your toilet and in the tub or shower.
- Use nonslip mats in the bathtub and on shower floors.
- Improve the lighting in your home. As you get older, you need brighter lights to see well. Lampshades or frosted bulbs can reduce glare.
- Install handrails and lights on all staircases.
- Wear shoes that give good support and have thin, nonslip soles. Avoid wearing slippers and athletic shoes with deep treads.
If you suffer from the following diseases and health conditions, you are more susceptible to falling and will greatly benefit from our fall prevention evaluation:
- Neuropathy (lack of sensation in feet or lower legs)
- Inner ear problems or vertigo
- Arthritis
- Pain on movement
- Inappropriate use of devices to aid walking
- Cardiovascular disorder
- Diabetes
- Parkinson’s disease
- Dehydration
- COPD
- Muscle weakness
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
