By Patricia Nolan, PT, MPT, CLT-LANA, Physical Therapist
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one out of four older people suffer a fall each year. After only falling once, the chance of falling again is doubled. Suffering a fall can result in injury, hospitalization and long-term loss of function.
Here are a few tips to follow to reduce your risk of falls.
Stay active – regular exercise and activity can help maintain strength and flexibility.
Perform safety checks in your home – remove any slip or trip hazards such as clutter or throw rugs, keep good lighting, and install handrail or grab bars.
Check your medications – side effects of medications such as dizziness can increase fall risk. It is important to discuss/review any negative side effects of your medications with your doctor or pharmacist
Have a falls assessment – if you have had or are concerned of having a fall, a falls risk assessment by a physical therapist or other health care provider can identify your risk and recommend a course of action.
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Patricia Nolan, PT, MPT, CLT-LANA, has been a physical therapist at RWJBarnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center since 2006. Patricia has 23 years of clinical experience, and her areas of specialty include lymphedema, breast cancer rehabilitation and pelvic floor dysfunction. She always strives to provide compassionate and understanding care for her patients.