Balance and Fall Prevention

As we age, our risk of falling increases due to a variety of factors, including changes in vision, decreased muscle strength and flexibility, and medications that can affect balance.

Here are some statistics related to balance and falling as we age:

1. Falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations among older adults.
2. One in four older adults (aged 65 and older) falls each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Falls are responsible for more than 95% of hip fractures among older adults.
4. Falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injury (TBI) among older adults.
5. In 2018, falls resulted in over 36,000 deaths among older adults in the United States.
6. By the age of 80, over half of older adults report difficulties with balance.
7. Approximately 20-30% of older adults who fall suffer moderate to severe injuries such as lacerations, hip fractures, and head traumas.
8. Women are more likely to fall than men, and they are more likely to experience injuries from falling.
9. After experiencing a fall, an older adult's risk of falling again doubles.
   

These statistics highlight the importance of taking steps to prevent falls as we age, such as staying physically active, practicing balance exercises, and making modifications to the home environment to reduce fall hazards.

Physical therapy can be an effective way to improve balance and prevent falls in older adults.

Here are some ways that physical therapy can help:

Assessment: A physical therapist can assess an individual's balance and gait, identifying any areas of weakness or dysfunction. This information can be used to develop a customized treatment plan to address specific needs.

Exercise: A physical therapist can design an exercise program to improve strength, flexibility, and coordination, which can help improve balance and prevent falls. These exercises may include resistance training, stretching, and balance training.

Education: A physical therapist can educate an individual on proper body mechanics, posture, and gait to reduce fall risk. They may also provide education on home safety modifications and strategies for fall prevention.

Assistive Devices: A physical therapist can recommend and fit an individual with appropriate assistive devices, such as canes or walkers, to improve mobility and reduce fall risk. We may also be able to recommend items at home to make the home environment safer.

Overall, physical therapy can be a valuable tool in improving balance and reducing fall risk in older adults. By addressing specific areas of weakness or dysfunction and providing education and support, physical therapy can help individuals stay active, independent, and safe.