The fear of falling is associated with a lot of detrimental impacts among the senior population. For instance, they may completely stop walking or modify how they do things. They may also decide to walk more slowly than they naturally should. The overall effect is reduced activity, which results into weak muscles and could lead to or aggravate a fall. Weakened muscles also compromise social interaction and heighten the risk of isolation and depression, which have disruptive impacts on the quality of life. Additionally, there are huge financial costs that are associated with falling.
Everybody value their independence. Accordingly, risks of falling which threatens such independence should be mitigated at all costs. In Sydney, one of the best methods of curbing the negative effects of the falling (or the fear of it) is enrolling in a falls prevention program.
What is involved in Falls Prevention Programs?
Falls Prevention Programs in Sydney involve consultation with a physiotherapist and a geriatrician to assess the elderly who are having falls or who are at risk of falling. The programs are designed to improve balance and gait as well as strength of the elderly, and are often run by registered physiotherapists. Education sessions include home exercises, home safety practices, and safe medical practices. Participants are also introduced to some of the factors that may put them at risk of falling.
The physiotherapists also identify individual risks of falling and develop appropriate plans. These include increasing the balance and mobility skills as well as making changes to home and community environments of the concerned parties. Changing the environment can go a long way in helping the elderly complete their daily activities. While a falls prevention program may not cover every cause of fall, it is a good place to begin.
Who should attend the Falls Prevention programs Sydney has on offer?
• Any person of age 65 years and above who experience falls or at risk for falls
• People who can safely participate in a supervised exercise program
• Elderly who can walk up to 25 meters.
Final Remarks
Falls have detrimental effects on the quality of life of the elderly. In fact, according to a CDC’s 2009 report, 75 years and older seniors who fall are 4 to 5 times more likely to be admitted in various Australian long-term care facilities for a year or longer. However, this doesn’t mean that it is an inevitable stage of ageing. Through falls prevention programs, lifestyle adjustments, and community partnerships, the number of falls among the senior population can be reduced significantly.
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