Falls can diminish your ability to lead an active and independent life. There usually are several reasons for a fall, and the more risk factors you have, the greater your risk.
The reasons for falls are complex and include:
Being 80 years old or older
Leg muscle weakness
Difficulty with balance or walking
Vision problems (cataracts, macular degeneration, wearing bifocals)
Medical conditions that limit your ability to get around, such as Parkinson’s disease, stroke, or diabetes
Conditions that cause confusion, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
Depression
Taking more than 4 medications at the same time or psychoactive medications (such as sedatives or antidepressants)
Using a cane or other walking device
Home hazards (throw rugs, pets underfoot)
Low blood pressure
A history of previous falls
About one third of people over the age of 65 and almost half of people over the age of 80 will fall at least once this year.
How a physiotherapist can help
If you are worried about falling or if you recently had a fall, a physiotherapist can conduct a screening of your fall risk. If the screening shows that you are at risk, the therapist will perform a thorough evaluation, and design an exercise and training program to improve your balance and strength, and may include:
Balance Training
Walking and Moving Improvement
Strength Training
Aerobic Training
Education
Fear Management
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