For older adults, staying active and independent often starts with feeling confident on your feet. A change in balance, strength or mobility can make everyday activities more difficult and can increase the risk of a fall.
The good news is that many fall risks can be identified and addressed before a fall occurs.
We spoke with Dante DiSipio, Director of Therapy at TGH Home Care, about ways older adults and their families can recognize fall risks, stay active and build confidence at home.
“A fall doesn't always happen out of nowhere. There are often signs that someone may be becoming less steady or having more difficulty with movement.
For example, someone may begin holding onto furniture while walking, avoiding certain activities because they don't feel steady, having trouble getting up from a chair or feeling unsteady when turning or changing directions.
A previous fall is also one of the biggest indicators that someone may be at risk for another fall. If someone has fallen before or their mobility has noticeably changed, that's a good reason to talk with a healthcare professional or physical therapist.”
“Start by looking at the home from the perspective of someone who may have difficulty seeing or navigating obstacles. Make sure hallways, bedrooms and bathrooms have adequate lighting, especially at night.
Keep walkways clear of clutter, cords, throw rugs and anything else that could become a tripping hazard. Pets are another thing to consider. A pet or a toy in the wrong place can easily become an obstacle when someone is walking.
The bathroom is another area where safety is important. Having the appropriate equipment and support can make everyday activities much safer.
It's also important not to overlook footwear. Shoes should fit properly and provide good traction and support. Going barefoot or wearing loose-fitting slippers can make it more difficult to stay stable.”
“Movement is extremely important for maintaining strength and mobility as we age. When people become less active, they can gradually lose strength and endurance, which can make everyday movements more challenging.
You don't necessarily need to do complicated exercises. Walking, participating in household activities and getting up and moving throughout the day are all ways to stay active.
For someone who has specific balance or mobility concerns, a physical therapist can recommend exercises that are appropriate for their abilities and goals.”
“Physical therapy is individualized. We first look at how someone is moving and identify the areas that may be affecting their safety, whether that's strength, balance, endurance, walking ability or difficulty with certain daily activities.
From there, we can create a treatment plan that focuses on those specific needs. That could include strengthening exercises, balance activities, walking practice or working on everyday movements like getting in and out of a chair.
One of the biggest benefits is that patients get the opportunity to practice these skills safely. As they improve, we can challenge them a little more and help them build confidence along with their physical abilities.”
“Don't let fear of falling keep you from moving altogether. It's understandable to be cautious after a fall or when you don't feel steady, but becoming less active can lead to further loss of strength and mobility.
If you're noticing that you're avoiding activities you used to enjoy, that's a good time to talk with your healthcare provider or physical therapist. We can help identify what may be contributing to the problem and work on ways to make movement safer.
The goal is to help people feel confident doing the things they want and need to do in their everyday lives.”
Fall prevention doesn't have to mean making major changes all at once. Improving lighting, clearing walkways, wearing supportive footwear and staying active are simple steps that can help create a safer environment.
For those experiencing changes in balance, strength or mobility, physical therapy can provide additional support and a personalized approach to improving movement and confidence.
TGH Home Care powered by VNA of Florida provides therapy services in the home, helping patients work toward greater mobility and independence in the environment where they live every day.
If you or a loved one has concerns about balance, mobility or fall risk, talk with your healthcare provider about whether physical therapy may be appropriate.