Awareness is the key to maintaining balance
National
Falls Prevention Awareness Day is being recognized on Sept. 22, 2013, the
first official day of fall. Its purpose
is to “promote and increase public awareness about how to prevent and reduce
falls among older adults”.
Falling is not a normal part of aging. Yet, one in
three adults, 65 years and older fall each year, according to the Center
for Disease Control and Prevention. In 2009 alone over 2.4 million seniors
were treated in emergency departments for fall-related injuries. The United States
spends over $19 billion annually for the treatment of fall-related injuries.
The good news is falls can be prevented. Simple adjustments
to daily activities can greatly reduce the risk of a fall.
What is balance?
Balance is the body’s awareness of where it is in space. We
rely on our eye sight, inner ear functions and our joint/muscle awareness to
maintain balance. If even one of those systems is slightly impaired, our
balance is at risk.
Sometimes, the loss of balance can be a symptom to another
issue the body is experiencing. For instance, an individual may trip on a rug
while rushing to get to a restroom, fall and twist an ankle. In this case, a
doctor or a therapist may be more concerned as to why the person was rushing to
the restroom, rather than the fall itself.
Preventing falls
One of the best ways to prevent a fall is to simply be
aware. Be aware of what the body is trying to communicate and be aware of what
factors may increase the risk of a fall.
The following are four simple techniques to reduce the risk
of a fall:
1. Begin an exercise program to improve leg strength and
balance.
2. Ask a doctor or pharmacist to review all medications.
Learn about the medications you are taking and understand the side effects.
3. Get an annual eye exam and update the prescriptions.
4. Review your home environment regularly to check for
clutter and tripping hazards. Consider installing extra railings or grab bars.
Balance education
Fall prevention programming is a growing trend among many
health care organizations. Balance programs are available to not only treat the
effects of a fall, but also to prevent a fall from occurring. If you have a
fear of falling or recognize you may be at risk for a fall, contact your
physician and ask for a full balance assessment.
Falls are not a normal part of aging. Don’t let the risk of
a fall slow you down. Be aware and be proactive with your health.
The Saint Therese Rehab (STR) Balance Program incorporates
state-of-the-art balance assessment and training techniques to help each individual
live a better life.
STR therapists are specially trained to assess and treat
balance disorders in older adults. Each patient builds a relationship with a
therapist who observes, listens, develops and executes a plan of action
specific to the balance and wellness goals of each individual.
To learn more visit www.sttheresemn.org/saintthereserehab or
call 763.531.5435.
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