How Physical Therapists Can Help You Prevent Falls
Falls are the leading cause of loss of independence in people over age 65. If you are a senior who is concerned about preventing falls, you may enlist the help of a physical therapist. Physical therapists specialize in improving the way your body moves and functions with exercise, massage and other therapy techniques.
Physical Therapy Techniques for Fall Prevention
Physical therapists offer a variety of exercises and techniques to improve your balance and strength, lowering your risk for falls. Techniques include:
Individualized Exercise Programs
Your physical therapist will assess your fall risk to create an individualized exercise programs. You might have a higher risk for falls if you have:
- Poor balance
- Weak leg muscles
- Vision problems
- Peripheral neuropathy
Certain prescription medicines can also affect your balance.
Your exercise program will help address these risks to improve your ability to walk and move. Your program may include exercises such as:
- Weight training
- Dance steps
- Walking in circles or figure-8s
- Obstacle courses
- Walking sessions to improve endurance
Your physical therapist will work with you to design a safe, effective exercise program. You may complete some exercises with your physical therapist and other exercises at home, depending on your abilities.
Assistive Devices
Your physical therapist can also help determine if a cane or walker can help keep you safe from falls. Your physical therapist will help you find the right device for you and teach you how to use it properly.
Home Risk Assessment
Physical therapists can assess your home for items that may increase your risk for falls. These might include throw rugs, power cords across walkways or poor lighting. Making even small changes to your home can increase your safety. Your physical therapist may suggest you:
- Install grab bars in the shower or near the toilet
- Add a handrail to any stairs in or outside the house
- Use nonskid rugs or rug liners
- Put commonly used items on easier-to-reach shelves
- Improve the lighting in your home
Fall Prevention Resources
Your physical therapist can also help connect you to other medical professionals who can reduce your risk for falls. For instance, after performing a vision test, your physical therapist may suggest you see an optometrist or ophthalmologist for help improving your vision.
Your physical therapist can also connect you to community resources, such as the Peninsula Agency on Aging or Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia. These organizations offer a variety of programs to help keep seniors safe and independent.
Bon Secours in Motion physical therapists offer a specialized Balance and Fall Prevention program for seniors at locations throughout Hampton Roads. Learn if this program is right for you.