Did you know that with every passing second, an older adult in the U.S. becomes another statistic, facing a fall that may lead to severe injury or worse?
Fall prevention extends beyond mere statistics; it affects lives and the quality of life for countless individuals, especially our senior citizens.
The leading causes of hospital visits for those aged 65+ are falls, with an astounding 90% of injury-related ER visits attributed to them. The grave figures don't end there. A shocking 95% of hip fractures and many traumatic brain injuries stem from falls.
These stats underscore the paramount importance of fall prevention. But there's hope – with physical therapy's aid, prevention and recovery from fall-induced injuries become a reality.
Keep reading for further information on how The Therapy Network can help you prevent falls in your home.
Most Common Fall Hotspots Around the Home
Knowing where you're most likely to fall is half the battle in fall prevention. Unfortunately, the home, often considered the safest haven, tops the charts as the primary location for falls, especially for older adults.
- Stairs: Number one risk zone in homes.
- Bathrooms: Over 23,000 yearly injuries.
- Gardens: Uneven surfaces can be treacherous.
- Living Rooms: Often cluttered and overlooked.
- Driveways and Sidewalks: Cracks and uneven pavements can trip.
- Bedrooms: Night-time navigation without proper lighting can be hazardous.
As part of your fall prevention plan, download a booklet from the CDC and review the tips for preventing falls in your home.
Home Safety: Fall Prevention Tips
Creating a fall-proof environment isn't a Herculean task. We asked the physical therapist at The Therapy Network for some tips for this blog. Here is some actionable advice from the TTN team:
- De-clutter: Clear hallways, staircases, and rooms of any unnecessary items.
- Repair Hazards: Address loose carpets, wobbly floorboards, or risky throw rugs.
- Install Safety Measures: Add grab bars by toilets, handrails in stairways, and nonslip mats in wet zones.
- Optimum Lighting: Ensure all areas, especially stairways and corridors, are well-lit.
- Wear Sensible Clothing: Avoid excessively loose clothes that may cause tripping.
- Shoe Strategy: Wear shoes indoors or opt for nonslip socks.
- One-Level Living: If feasible, consider living on one level to avoid stairs.
- Mindful Movement: Always move from sitting to standing with caution, taking a moment to stabilize. A physical therapist can show you the best method to move from sitting to standing.
- Join Exercise Programs: Engage in exercises that enhance balance and muscle strength. Ask your TTN physical therapist for tips and ideas to improve mobility and flexibility.
How Can The Therapy Network Help?
The prospect of falls shouldn't paralyze you with fear. Instead, arm yourself with preventative measures and guidance from The Therapy Network.
We're never too far with offices in multiple coastal Virginia locations. In 2022, we took a significant leap forward, introducing our specialized Fall Prevention Center in Norfolk, Virginia. Here's the best part: Prevention begins before the accident. At The Therapy Network, we advocate for proactive measures. During your fall prevention visit, anticipate an extensive evaluation:
- BioSway Testing
- Berg Testing
- Tenetti Testing
- Balance Testing
- Mobility Testing
- Vestibular Testing
- Home Environment Assessment
Begin your fall prevention journey today by scheduling an appointment. Did you know you do not need a physician's referral to schedule a fall prevention appointment at TTN?
Awareness combined with proactive measures can drastically reduce the risks of falls. The Therapy Network is dedicated to empowering everyone with the knowledge and tools needed to make every step safe.
Visit www.TheTherapyNetwork.com for more insights and assistance.
