As we age, life presents new challenges. One of the biggest concerns for older adults is the risk of falling, and for good reason: 1 in 4 falls causes a serious injury, like broken bones or even a head injury. In fact, falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, often leading to a decline in mobility and independence.
But here’s the thing: many falls are preventable. Understanding the factors that increase the risk of falling and taking proactive steps can make a huge difference. In this post, we’ll talk about why falls are so common as we age, how a fall risk assessment can help you stay safe, and what steps you can take to reduce your risk.
Why Do Falls Happen More Often as We Get Older?
Aging brings with it changes to our bodies, and many of these changes can make us more prone to falls. You might not notice it right away, but things like balance issues, weaker muscles, or even vision problems can affect how we move through the world. Some of the most common risk factors include:
- Balance disorders that affect stability
- Mobility problems like difficulty standing or walking
- Chronic illnesses that impact overall health
- Vision problems that make it hard to see potential hazards
- Foot issues or wearing shoes that aren’t supportive
- Cognitive issues like dementia or mild cognitive impairment
- Medications that may make you feel dizzy or unsteady
- Home hazards like slippery floors or stairs
- Low blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension) when standing up too quickly
- Vitamin D deficiency affecting bone health
- Comorbidities (the presence of multiple health conditions)
When these factors combine, it can become a perfect storm for a fall.
Who Should Consider a Fall Risk Assessment?
If you’re 65 or older, a fall risk assessment should be a regular part of your healthcare routine. The American Geriatrics Society recommends that older adults have a fall risk screening every year to assess their chances of falling. Why? Because the earlier you catch any potential issues, the easier it is to prevent a fall from happening.
What Happens During a Fall Risk Assessment?
A fall risk assessment is designed to check how likely you are to fall, and more importantly, it helps identify areas where you may be at risk. Our therapists will assess your strength, balance, and the way you walk—this process is key to understanding your fall risk.
Here’s a look at what you can expect:
1. The Screening:
The first step is an initial screening where we ask questions about your health. We’ll want to know about any previous falls, whether you’ve noticed problems with balance or walking, or if you’ve experienced difficulty standing up. It’s a simple conversation, but it helps us get a full picture of how you’re doing.
2. Fall Assessment Tools:
Next, we’ll guide you through a set of tasks that test your strength, balance, and gait (how you walk). This step might include things like standing on one leg or walking in a straight line to see how stable you are. These tasks help pinpoint areas where you might be at risk.
What Your Results Mean
Once the assessment is complete, you’ll receive your results, which will tell us whether you have a low, moderate, or high risk of falling. The assessment will also highlight specific areas where you may need to improve—whether it’s balance, strength, or the way you walk.
Based on your results, our therapists will give you personalized recommendations to help reduce your risk. These could include balance exercises, strength training, or even suggestions to improve your home environment (like removing clutter or adding grab bars in key areas).
How Physical Therapy Can Help You Stay Safe
Physical therapy is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of falling. Our goal is to help you regain your confidence and independence by strengthening your body, improving your balance, and increasing your overall mobility.
We offer a range of services to support fall prevention, such as:
- Balance Therapy & Rehabilitation to help you stay steady on your feet
- Strength & Conditioning Exercises to build up muscles that support your movements
- Functional Movement Exercises that mimic everyday tasks, making it easier to move around safely
- Neurological Rehabilitation to help with balance issues caused by conditions like stroke or Parkinson’s disease
- Pre- and Post-Surgical Rehab to ensure that after surgery, you’re able to get back on your feet safely and with more confidence
Our therapists work with you one-on-one to create a plan tailored to your needs, ensuring you feel as strong and capable as possible.
We’re Here to Support You
Taking steps to prevent falls is essential for staying healthy and independent as you age. At our clinic, we understand how important it is to address fall risks early, which is why we offer comprehensive fall risk assessments and personalized care plans. We accept most insurance plans and offer flexible payment options for those without insurance.
Whether you’re ready to schedule a fall risk assessment, want to learn more about our fall prevention programs, or need help with rehab after a fall, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to take action? Contact us today to schedule your fall risk assessment and begin your journey toward better balance and a safer life.
