Fall Prevention

 

Falls are common in people aged 65 years and older and are the leading cause of injury in this age group. They can have serious consequences, including trauma, pain, impaired function, loss of confidence in carrying out everyday activities, loss of independence and autonomy, and even death. The economic costs of falls increase with fall frequency and falls are an independent predictor for admission to long-term care. Current evidence in research supports that strength, flexibility, balance and reaction time are the most readily modifiable risk factors for falls. In addition, age is not a limiting factor. People, even in their 90s, can improve their strength and balance to achieve stability and avoid falls.

 

OCSPT has adopted the Otago Exercise Program as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) with modification as needed to meet the individual needs of our seniors. The program was designed specifically to prevent falls. It consists of a set of leg muscle strengthening and balance retraining exercises progressing in difficulty, and a walking plan. The exercises are individually prescribed and increase in difficulty based on an ongoing physical therapy assessment.

 

At the initial consultation, a detailed clinical examination will be carried out which includes taking a clinical history and an assessment of the factors that would influence safety and adherence to the program. Baseline strength and balance measurements will be conducted. A set of specific exercises will be prescribed based on the clinical examination as well as introducing a safe walking plan. Patients are generally seen for two times a week for 3-4 weeks, then once a week for up to 4 weeks. However, frequency and duration of treatment may vary depending on the physical examination and functional balance scores at the initial consultation.