By: Kara Everett, PT, DPT, CSCS, CKTP
LSVT BIG Certified
Operations Director, Hartfield Location
The likelihood of falling increases as we age. Each year, 30-40% of people aged 65 years and older fall and roughly half of all falls result in an injury. Falls are a major threat to older adults’ quality of life and can often lead to a decrease in participation in physical and social activities. The fear of falling (which develops in 20-39% of those who have fallen) can further lead to activity limitations.
Don’t Trip! Check Off Hazards.
The way your house is set up and the things in your home could be increasing your fall risk. Do you have a lot of rugs that could be a trip hazard? Do you have cords or electrical wires across or running in areas where you frequently walk? Do your stairs have handrails? Is there good lighting for your nighttime walk to the bathroom from your bedroom? Here is a check for safety brochure by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to help you find out.
Home Assessment: Why You Should Have One!
Our therapists at Carousel can come to your home for a personalized home assessment. During this assessment, we will evaluate each room of your house to identify any potential fall risks and how to address these problems and improve the overall safety of your home.
To schedule your home assessment today, give us a call at 435-3435 for our Kilmarnock office and 776-8500 for our Hartfield office.
