October is Physical Therapy Month, and this year we’d like to use this opportunity to focus on one of the most pressing concerns in our community—fall prevention. More than 14 million Americans age 65 and older experience falls each year, and one in 10 of those falls results in an injury that requires medical attention or disrupts daily activities. While falls can have significant physical, emotional and social consequences, the good news is that they are largely preventable with the right approach.
For many older adults, falling even once can double the risk of falling again. That’s why early intervention through balance and fall prevention therapy is so important. The goal is to reduce fall risk before injuries happen by addressing issues such as lower body weakness, vision or hearing deficits, and balance problems. “Preventing falls isn’t just about safety after a fall occurs—it’s about proactively addressing the factors that increase fall risk. Physical therapy is an essential part of that process because it helps identify individual weaknesses and provides tailored exercises to improve balance, function and mobility,” explained Sarah Jane Malone, physical therapist at Blount Memorial Total Rehabilitation.
To prevent falls, physical therapists work with patients to strengthen the muscles that support balance, as well as improve sensory feedback and coordination. For example, patients with conditions such as numbness in their feet may not realize how much it impacts their stability. “The sensation in your feet plays a significant role in maintaining balance. When that sensory input is compromised, we often see patients looking down while they walk, which further increases fall risk. Physical therapy helps address these issues and retrains the body to move more safely and confidently,” Malone adds.
In addition to physical therapy, patients are encouraged to take other preventive steps, including regular vision and hearing check-ups. Vision plays a key role in helping to avoid hazards and make quick judgments. Those with conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma or macular degeneration are at a higher risk of falling and should speak with a health care provider about their options. Likewise, addressing hearing loss can improve balance responses and reduce fall risk.
Staying active is another vital component of fall prevention. Engaging in regular exercise—whether walking, swimming or participating in balance programs—can help reduce lower body weakness and improve overall strength. For some, using an appropriate assistive device, such as a walker or cane, is a practical solution to help maintain independence while reducing fall risk. Physical therapists can help identify the most suitable mobility aids for each patient, ensuring he or she has the right tools to stay safe.
It’s also important to take steps to make the home environment safe. This might include clearing clutter, securing loose rugs, or installing handrails in bathrooms and staircases. Finally, regular check-ups with a primary care provider allow for ongoing assessment of health conditions that may increase fall risk, such as medications that cause dizziness or fatigue.
If you or a loved one are concerned about falls or balance issues, taking action early can make all the difference. Don’t wait until after a fall—schedule an assessment today by calling Blount Memorial Total Rehabilitation at 865-238-6118 to take the first step toward a safer, more active life.
