Falls and a fear of falling can diminish your ability to lead a full and independent life. A fall can result in unwanted outcomes, including injury, loss of independence, and decreased ability to do the things that are most important to you. You can prevent falling by doing physical activities you enjoy and working with a physical therapist to improve your balance, muscle strength, and endurance.
Although 1 in every 4 older adults falls each year, falling is not a part of normal aging. A physical therapist can help you assess your risk factors and develop a plan to address them and remain independent by:
- Designing an individualized plan for your fall-prevention needs.
- Helping you make your home as safe as possible.
- Educating you about the medical risk factors associated with falls.
- Providing you with appropriate exercises and balance training.
- Working with other health care professionals to address any underlying medical conditions that could increase your fall risk.
- Providing you with recommendations on appropriate community programs.
Physical therapists are movement experts. They improve quality of life through hands-on care, patient education, and prescribed movement.
