3 Reasons Your Loved One May Be at Risk of a Fall

Are you worried that someone you love has poor balance and could be susceptible to falling? 

Falls are a major health issue in our community with around 30% of adults over 65 experiencing at least one fall per year.*

There are a number of risk factors when it comes to falls, and no single risk factor is the cause of all falls. The more risk factors someone experiences, the greater the chance of a fall. 

1. The natural aging process can cause a decrease in balance. Impaired vision, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and some medications can also contribute to unsteadiness.
2. Weakness in the lower limbs can also significantly increase the risk of falls and arthritis or muscular diseases in these areas can compromise strength.
3. Simply the fear of falling itself can also result in limiting future activities and this, in turn, can lead to a reduced quality of life and independence. The fear of falling again is significant in approximately 48% of those who have already fallen once, and 25% admit to restricting the activities they engage in as a result.* 

The good news is you can do something about it! 

Performing a series of specific balance exercises can assist in improving overall strength and preventing falls. 

The team at Hastings Physiotherapy are passionate about falls prevention and we may be able to prevent a fall of someone you love. 

In the unfortunate instance that a fall does occur, we can also support in injury management and rehabilitation. 

If you have questions about how we can help you or someone you love, please send us a message through our contact page. 

*http://www.anzfallsprevention.org/info/