Fall Prevention
September 23rd is Fall Prevention Awareness Day and United Rehab Physical Therapy is looking to help you prevent falls and avoid injury. Before we explain some ways to avoid slip and fall accidents, it’s important to be aware of the following statistics about falling incidents and how many people it affects:
One-fourth of Americans aged 65+ falls each year.
Falls are the leading cause of fatal injury and the most common cause of nonfatal trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults.
In 2015, the total cost of fall injuries was $50 billion.
Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall. Every 19 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall.
Falls result in more than 3 million injuries treated in emergency departments annually, including over 850,000 hospitalizations and more than 29,000 deaths.
From the statistics, you can clearly see that fall accidents aren’t to be taken lightly. While the prior information may be alarming, there are steps you can take to avoid injury. At United Rehab Physical Therapy, our Safe Steps Fall Assessment can give you the help you need to avoid injury. The program’s different services include:
Free Fall Risk Screening
Strength, Gait, Balance Training, & Rehab
Vestibular Testing & Therapy
Patient Safety Education
Home Visits
In addition to joining our Safe Steps Fall Assessment program, there are some steps you can take to avoid fall accidents throughout your day.
Install abrasive floor mats or replace any worn flooring.
Make sure everything is properly lighted; that includes replacing light bulbs regularly.
Cover up cords and cables that are on the floor.
Keep your walkways and hallways free of debris and clutter.
Wear comfortable shoes that fit your feet appropriately.
At United Rehab Physical Therapy, we encourage a “Hands-On” approach to our treatment methods. This month, make sure that your health is a priority and avoid injuring yourself from a fall-related accident. Have you been the recently injured from a slip and fall accident? Luckily, we can give you the assistance and support you need. Contact our office today, and start your journey to better health!
