Falls Prevention Program
Falls are a major health problem among older adults with falls being the most common cause of injury, and the major cause of hospitalisation, in people over 65 years of age; however researchers say that a third of falls by the elderly can be prevented!
Fall-related injuries include: fractures, head injuries and post-fall anxiety. This then leads to loss of independence through disability and fear of falling. The reduction in mobility and independence are often serious enough to result in admission to hospital or a nursing home, or even premature death. Falling is frightening and leads to a loss of confidence. Those that have experienced a fall tend to go out less often leading to a decline in exercise, resulting in decreased muscle conditioning thus increasing the risk of subsequent falls.
Numerous studies show that falls prevention interventions significantly reduces the statistics of older people who fall at least once. An intervention programme should include: a multi-factorial risk assessment, management programmes, exercise programmes, environment modification and education. General activity and specific physical activity include training targeted towards balance, gait and strength.
PhysioPlus offers residents at rest homes and individuals in the community a Falls Prevention Programme to assist in the prevention of falls. The programme involves an extensive falls risk assessment and a comprehensive report; including recommendations and interventions conducted by a physiotherapist experienced in geriatrics and neurological-based rehabilitation.
The Falls Prevention Programme can be conducted at our PhysioPlus Ferry Rd clinic,or if the client is at a rest home,the assessment can be carried out there.
