How Do I Stop Mum Falling At Home?
As we age, falls become a common concern, and they can have significant physical and emotional impacts on both you and your loved ones. In fact, falls are one of the leading causes of fractures and emergency department visits among seniors. Changes in walking patterns and poor balance can increase the risk of falls, making it important to take proactive steps to prevent them.
The Importance of Screening and Physiotherapy
Since 2011, The American Geriatrics Society (AGS) has recommended that adults aged 65 and over be screened for falls. Physiotherapists have the necessary skills to screen for fall risks and can refer patients for further investigation as needed. Physiotherapy is often recommended for falls prevention, particularly for those with impaired balance and walking patterns.
Exercise Intervention for Falls Prevention
If you're concerned about falls, the first step is to have a thorough assessment by a physiotherapist. They can identify the reasons behind your falls and develop a tailored exercise program to target any issues. Research has shown that a structured exercise program over a period of 3-6 months is the most effective treatment for reducing the risk of falls.
Types of Exercises for Falls Prevention
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to fall prevention, as everyone is different. Physiotherapists can tailor an exercise intervention to your individual needs and ability. A combination of strength and balance training has been shown to be the most effective strategy for reducing falls. An example treatment program may include:
Static activities to challenge your ability to hold your centre of body weight over your base of support
Dynamic activities that require your arms or legs to move outside your base of support
Dynamic gait retraining that includes turning and changing directions while walking
Dual-task training that requires you to focus on two tasks at once
Strengthening exercises for the legs, arms, and core
Walking to optimize heart function and breathing
Perturbation and stepping retraining to train your reaction times in recovering from a loss of balance
It's important to note that this is a general plan, and everyone should be assessed before starting an exercise program.
Taking Action for Better Balance
If you or someone you know is experiencing falls or is fearful of falling, seek advice from your local health professional or a physiotherapist. We can see you in the comfort and convenience of your own home and develop a treatment program tailored to your needs. Let's take action and get moving for better balance!
References
Sun, M., Min, L., Xu, N., Huang, L. and Li, X. (2021). The Effect of Exercise Intervention on Reducing the Fall Risk in Older Adults: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(23), p.12562. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182312562.