hover background

Jan 01
2018

Physical therapy can help seniors prevent falls by improving strength and balance, assessing the risk for falls and making recommendations for reducing the risk of falls. Preventing falls as we age is important to our continued health and well-being. A fall in our senior years can lead to complicated health issues, including an increased risk of death.

Whether due to the natural process of aging, health conditions or side effects of medication, many things can increase our risk of falling as we age, including:

• Vision loss
• Medications
• Medical conditions
• Tripping hazards at home
• Loss of balance
• Decreased strength

A physical therapist will use this information and more to assess your risk for a fall and help you or a loved one determine what to do to reduce your risk.

[ Related article: How Physical Therapy Helps After Stroke ]

How Physical Therapy Can Help Seniors Prevent Falls

What can be done by a physical therapist to help reduce your risk for a fall? Your physical therapist will make recommendations on exercises and can help guide you in the following areas:

• strengthening legs
• improving balance
• strength training exercises
• eliminating home hazards
• increasing flexibility
• proper gait

Improving your core strength can also help with balance and decreasing the risk of falling. Tai chi has also been found to be helpful for many senior adults as a way to help improve balance and strength. It is also beneficial as a workout as we age due to the low impact it has on our body, joints and muscles during exercise.

A physical therapist will work with you to assess your risk of falling and help you implement exercises that will improve your balance and strength and reduce your risk of falls. At Above & Beyond Physical Therapy, our team is dedicated to helping you make the most of enjoying your senior years and keeping you or your loved one happy and healthy for many more years to come.

To get started on a physical therapy program that will reduce your risk of falling, schedule an appointment today.