Physical Therapy Can Prevent Falls
Falls are one of the most common—and serious—health risks facing older adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than one-third of all adults age 65 and older experience a fall each year. The consequences of falling include serious injuries such as fractures and head trauma. Even small injuries caused by falls can send older adults to the hospital, where they are at increased risk of further complications, causing a spiral of worsening health outcomes that can drastically reduce quality of life and life expectancy.
But the good news is, many falls are preventable. Recognizing the early signs that someone may be at risk can make all the difference.
Why falls happen
Falls happen because of a mix of environmental, behavioral, and physical factors. Many people do not realize they are at risk of falling until they experience a fall.
How can we recognize the signs that an older adult may experience a fall an intervene? Here’s what to look for.
- Changes in walking or balance: If you notice a loved one shuffling their feet, holding onto furniture as they walk (“furniture surfing”), or seeming unsteady, these are red flags. Even small changes in gait or posture can hint at underlying balance issues.
- Muscle weakness: Weak legs, difficulty rising from a chair, or trouble climbing stairs can signal reduced muscle strength, which plays a huge role in fall prevention.
- Medication side effects: Certain medications, or combinations of medications, can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or low blood pressure—all of which can increase fall risk.
- Vision problems: Trouble seeing clearly makes it harder to spot obstacles and changes in terrain. If it’s been a while since an eye exam, this could be part of the problem.
- A history of falls: One fall significantly increases the chances of falling again. Even if the person wasn’t injured the first time, it’s important to take a fall as a serious warning sign.
- Fear of falling: If someone seems hesitant to move around or avoids activities they used to enjoy, fear of falling could be holding them back—which unfortunately leads to more weakness and a higher fall risk over time.
Physical therapy can help
Physical therapy isn’t just about recovery after an injury—it’s one of the best tools for preventing falls before they happen. Just like an annual visit to your primary care provider, an annual assessment from a physical therapist can help identify issues with the musculoskeletal system and prevent injuries.
A licensed physical therapist can:
- Assess strength, balance, and mobility: They can pinpoint specific areas that need improvement and create a customized plan.
- Build strength and coordination: Through targeted exercises, therapists help individuals improve muscle tone, stability, and reaction time.
- Improve confidence: Working with a therapist helps older adults feel safer and more sure-footed in their daily movements.
- Suggest home modifications: Therapists often recommend simple changes, like removing loose rugs or adding grab bars, to make the home safer.
Even a few sessions can make a noticeable difference—and in many cases, Medicare and other insurance plans will help cover the cost if a doctor recommends it.
Staying strong and steady isn’t just about avoiding a fall—it’s about preserving freedom, joy, and quality of life.
If you’re concerned about yourself or a loved one, don’t wait. Talk to your health care provider about a fall risk assessment and whether physical therapy could help. It’s a step toward a safer, more confident future!
The information in this article is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor.
Source: IlluminAge
