According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one-third of adults ages 65 and older fall each year in the United States. Falls are the leading cause of deaths due to injuries and the most common cause of nonfatal injuries and hospital admissions for trauma in the older adult population.
Many people erroneously consider falling a normal consequence of aging, but that simply is not true. Falling in older adults is very often a result of lost strength, flexibility, endurance, coordination or balance, as well as a side effect of medications or loss of vision. There are evidence-based physical therapy treatments that help prevent falls in older adults.
Physical therapists assess each person individually and determine the risk factors for falling, such as loss of mobility, loss of balance, weakness, incoordination, ambulation problems, home environment dangers, and decreased confidence. Physical therapists create specialized programs to address those risks and then guide the person through the program.
APTA urges older adults to schedule a balance and falls assessment with a physical therapist to reduce the risk of falls and related injuries.
In addition to performing a fall-avoidance program designed specifically by a physical therapist, older adults should:
- Ask all health care providers to review their medicines – both prescription and over-the counter – to reduce side effects and interactions.
- Have their eyes checked by an eye doctor at least once a year.
Reduce fall hazards in the home, such as pets, loose rugs, debris and poor lighting.
