Falls are a major public health concern. According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 1/3 of adults 65 and older fall each year in the United States, and 20-30% of people who fall suffer moderate to severe injuries.
Falls and a fear of falling can reduce your ability to lead a full and independent life. Although 1 in every 4 older adults falls each year, falling is not a part of the normal aging process. You have the power to reduce your risk of falls. A physical therapist can help you do so by:
- Assessing your risk for falling
- Designing an personalized plan for your fall-prevention needs
- Helping you make your home as safe as possible
- Educating you about any medical risk factors associated with falls
- Providing you with appropriate exercises and balance training
- Working with other health care professionals to address any underlying medical conditions that could increase your risk of falling
