Between 35 and 40% of adults 65 years old or older fall annually, and falls are the leading cause of accidental injury in the home. At UAMS, we offer a program through our University Rehabilitation Department to help prevent senior adults from falling.
The Rehabilitation Department at the Donald W. Reynolds Institute on Aging offers physical and occupational therapy, which provides a variety of services in fall prevention. Following your initial intervention by the doctor, he/she might refer you to rehabilitation for a number of interventions to help you improve your safety and confidence.
Assessing Fall Risk and Creating a Plan
Your provider will help identify fall risk factors and create a treatment plan to address any areas of concern. Recommendations will be provided to improve the safety of your home or apartment such as:
- Bathroom equipment
- Addition or modification of lighting
- Handrails
- Quick access to an exit in an emergency
Our treatment could also include assessment and identification of musculoskeletal impairments, vestibular disorders or functional limitations which affect your balance, daily activities and gait. Some of these recommendations could consist of:
- Exercise program
- Modifications to the way you perform a daily task
- Mobility aids or equipment
If you have had a problem with falling in the past or feel limited in your activities due to fear of falling, we will try to find the reason. If our staff discovers that the problem is not related to your home environment or a problem with strength, range of motion or endurance, we can refer you to the correct specialist.
