Understanding the Risk of Falls
Falls are a major concern for older adults, as they can lead to serious injuries such as hip and wrist fractures. In the course of the natural aging process, older adults may experience reduced muscle strength, balance issues, and other bodily changes that increase their risk of falling. In the U.S. and Canada, falls are responsible for more than 3.5 million emergency department visits and approximately 40,000 deaths each year.
Economic Impact of Falls
Falls not only affect the health and wellbeing of older adults but also have significant economic implications. The total medical costs associated with fall–related injuries have been estimated at $50 billion annually, with nonfatal falls accounting for most of these costs. These numbers highlight the importance of effective fall–prevention strategies to reduce both health risks and financial burdens.
How Physical Therapy Can Help
Physical therapy–based fall–prevention programs offer a promising solution to this issue. By improving balance, strength, and mobility, physical therapists can help reduce the risk of falls and related injuries in older adults.
One study examined the economic impact of this type of intervention and showed that the average net benefit of physical therapy–based fall–prevention exercises was estimated to be $2,144 per episode of care. The cost per quality adjusted life year (QALY) gained–a metric commonly used in economic analysis research–was $13,425. This indicates that physical therapy is a cost–effective intervention.
Components of Physical Therapy for Fall Prevention
Physical therapy for fall prevention typically involves a multifactorial assessment and a personalized exercise program. This can include:
Additional Strategies for Falls Prevention
In addition to physical therapy, other strategies that can help reduce the risk of falls include:
What to Expect During Physical Therapy
During a physical therapy session, a trained therapist will assess your condition and create a personalized exercise plan. Sessions typically last between 30 minutes to 1 hour. The therapist will guide you through exercises designed to improve your balance, strength, and mobility, and provide tips for staying safe at home.
Fall–prevention programs are a safe, effective, and cost–efficient way to reduce your risk of falls and improve your quality of life. By incorporating these exercises into your routine, you can enjoy better mobility, less pain, and greater peace of mind.
Contact Us Today For More Information
Ready to find out how physical therapy can help you or a loved one reduce their risk for a fall? Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our expert therapists.
Additional details on the benefits of physical therapy for preventing falls can be found here.