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Role of Physiotherapist in fall prevention.

Role of Physiotherapist in fall prevention.

  • January 10, 2024

As we become older or when we are recovering from illness or surgery, there is a tendency to lose muscle strength, mobility and balance. After a fall an older person has around 50% probability of having significantly reduced mobility and makes them feel more vulnerable and less independent. Around 1 in 10 people who had a fall become afraid to leave their homes in case they fall again.

Why are elderly people more at risk of falls?

There are a number of reasons why an elderly person may be more at risk of falls.  These include:

  • Muscle weakness, reduced activity level.
  • Reduced Balance
  • Mobility issues due to pain, low balance, fear of fall, Infections, illness or surgery.
  • Dizziness and vestibular problems
  • Low Blood pressure
  • Feet and footwear issues.
  • Hazards at home or outdoors (including dim lighting, uneven surface and other trip hazards)
  • Medications (especially multiple medications, certain medications with side effects of drowsiness)

A falls prevention programme tailored to the individual person can reduce falls by approximately 54%. The falls prevention programme includes:

  • Exercise programme (including evidence based Otago, FaME programme)- Evidence states that a minimum of 50 hours of exercise over a period of time such as 6 months should be advised, to achieve long term effect.
  • Environment assessment and modification
  • Advice on Equipment (aids and alarms – Telecare)
  • Mobility and transfer practise
  • Patient and carer education

Our Physiotherapist are trained in various specialist falls prevention and management courses. Some of our Physiotherapists are qualified as Postural Stability Instructors (www.laterlifetraining.co.uk), who are experienced in organising individual and group programmes for falls prevention, based on FaME and Otago exercises.

Following a fall or fracture or a period of stay at hospital, our therapists can see you at home or care home to help you to get going again as soon as possible.

Aspire Rehab team can support in your journey to recovery- through specialist Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation.

Contact us to discuss your needs and how we can support you.

Phone: 020 3983 5146| 077 2333 2426

E-mail: contact@aspirerehab.co.uk

Why choose Aspire Rehab?

  • We provide an affordable and high quality service
  • Our Physiotherapists are registered with the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) and Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC).
  • All our physiotherapists are checked by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
  • We offer therapy at your convenience- home, care home, day centre, leisure centre/gyms, and clinics.
  • Flexible visiting hours (including evening and weekends) and do not have a waiting list.
  • You will always have the same physiotherapist visiting you at home
  • We are a team of experienced therapists, regularly updating our knowledge to provide evidence based and patient centred therapy
  • We are quick to respond and can bridge the gap if you are on an NHS waiting list for community Therapy/Rehabilitation.
  • We provide active rehabilitation and disability management.
  • We believe in a team approach, involving patients and their family members/carer to promote self-management
  • We protect your confidentiality and dignity at all times
  • We offer a multi-disciplinary approach, involving experienced Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists and also work in partnership with other professionals- as required.