Twenty five percent of seniors 65-85 years old will fall this year. Of those, 40% are likely to have multiple falls over the course of the year, and more than 200,000 people fractured their hips in a fall last year alone!
Those are some grim statistics, but the good news is that there is help available. Advanced Physical Therapy Center has a fall prevention treatment plan, and it’s one that is helping patients stay on their feet.
Many times, the number one reason someone has been moved into a nursing home is because of a fall. Patients can reduce their risk of falling by making some changes at home and by letting us help them make their bodies stronger.
FIRST STEP: Identify why the patient would fall. Is it because of poor vision, vertigo, medication, osteoporosis, or another medical condition? At Advanced PT, therapists will spend some time coaching patients on how to describe their falls and near falls. One technique that is helpful to patients is to keep a journal of times when falling or near falls occur. This can help identify any potential problems.
SECOND STEP: Safe proof your home. Advanced PT therapists will help with suggestions about how small changes in the home can help reduce the risk of falling. These may include:
· Remove loose rugs
· Add nightlights
· Eliminate clutter
THIRD STEP: Individualized exercise plan. At the core of this phase of the program are a series of exercises that will help patients strengthen their muscles and increase flexibility. These two areas will develop balance and coordination. In addition Advanced PT therapists will custom-tailor a full prevention program for the whole family.
Advanced PT’s Falls Prevention Program is available to anyone. Contact one of our clinics to schedule a consultation with one of our therapists today and prevent your loved one from an injury.
Grand Blanc | 10809 S. Saginaw Street | (810) 695-8700
Clio | 303 S. Mill Street | (810) 687-8700
Flint | G-2241 S. Linden Road | (810) 732-8400
Davison | 2138 Fairway Dr. | (810) 412-5100
Goodrich | 7477 State Rd. | (810) 636-8700
Hartland | 11182 Highland Rd. | (810) 632-8700
Clarkston | 6167 White Lake Rd. | (248) 620-4260
Waterford | 6650 Highland Rd. | (248) 618-3050
