Balance Training and Fall Prevention

 

According to the CDC, more than one third of adults 65 and older fall each year in the United States and 20% to 30% of people who fall suffer moderate to severe injuries. Physical therapists can help in risk reduction and prevention of falls. The majority of falls among community-dwelling seniors occur in and around their home. Research has demonstrated that improving home safety—either by assessments and modifications by physical therapists for people who have fallen, or through home modifications as part of a comprehensive fall prevention program—reduces the chances of future falls. 

 

It is important to not focus solely on reducing home hazards to the exclusion of other effective approaches, such as exercising to improve muscle weakness, poor gait, and balance problems. Population-based fall prevention programs must use a multi-faceted approach in order to achieve maximum impact. 

 

There usually are several reasons for a fall. Physical therapists can help you reduce your risk of falling by:

• Assessing your risk of falling.

• Helping you make your home as safe as possible.

• Educating you about the medical risk factors linked to falls.

• Designing individualized exercises and balance training.

• Working with other health care professionals and community services to create programs for people who want to reduce their risk of falling.