Free Fall Risk Assessments At Omaha Fyzical Therapy Center

Once risk is assessed, the West Essex Y is helping older adults feel strong, steady and safe by reducing fall risk through programs like “Keep on Movin'” and “Rocking and Reminiscing”. Sometimes after a fall people become afraid of having another fall, which can cause a person to start limiting daily activities. Twenty to 30 percent of these patients will suffer severe injuries, the most common being traumatic brain injuries, making it hard to get around or live independently and increasing the risk of early death. Researchers from the University of Sydney found that two hours per week of medium to challenging balance exercises aided in fall prevention. “We’re excited to offer the “Stand Tall” program in Senior and Community Centers so that seniors have the tools to help reduce the risk of the falls in the first place”. When speaking with your physician, the Mayo Clinic recommend that you ask about all of your medications, as some could cause side effects that might lead to a fall.

A prevention strategy that Dr. Schlaebitz is intimately familiar with is the “post-fall huddle”, which she and her colleagues have reported can reduce the number of falls from over seven per 1,000 patient-days to 1.4 per 1,000 patient-days. It provides all kinds of information including falls prevention ideas! Additionally, be sure you are taking the medication as prescribed. Our eyes and ears are crucial components to maintaining balance.

“Get educated early and take advantage of the support available in your community”. Remove trip hazards (throw rugs), increase lighting, make stairs safe with hand rails, and install grab bars in key areas such as shower/bathroom.

While older adults tend to realize the dangers faced with falling, most are unsure what actions to take to prevent them. These programs are right here in Chautauqua County.

Chairperson of Iowa Falls Prevention Coalition Barb McClintock of Des Moines participates in IowaÕs Largest Tai Chi Class, with locations throughout Iowa, in observance of National Falls Prevention Awareness Day, at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines, Iowa, Wednesday, September 23, 2015.