A fall can change an older person’s life quickly. Even a fall without an injury can leave someone afraid to move, and moving less makes muscles weaker and the next fall more likely. The good news is that many falls can be prevented with simple changes at home and the right exercise.
Why falls happen
Falls usually come from a mix of causes:
- Weaker leg muscles and poorer balance
- Medications that cause dizziness or drowsiness
- Poor eyesight or the wrong glasses
- Foot pain or unsuitable shoes
- Trip hazards such as rugs, cords and clutter
- Getting up quickly at night, in the dark
Because there are several causes, the best results usually come from tackling a few at once.
Quick changes you can make today
- Clear walkways of rugs, cords and clutter
- Add night lights between the bedroom and bathroom
- Keep frequently used items between waist and shoulder height
- Wear firm, well-fitting shoes with non-slip soles
- Ask the GP or pharmacist to review medications
- Book an eye test
How a physiotherapist helps
A physiotherapist visiting at home can check strength, balance and walking, then set exercises that fit the person’s ability. Exercises done in their own home, with their own furniture and stairs, are easier to keep up.
A physiotherapist can also check whether a walking stick or frame would help, and show how to use it safely.
How an occupational therapist helps
An occupational therapist looks at how the person moves through their home and daily tasks. They may recommend:
- Grab rails in the bathroom and toilet
- A shower chair or a raised toilet seat
- Changes to bed or chair height
- Safer ways to do everyday tasks, such as getting in and out of the shower
If home modifications are needed, Support at Home can include separate funding for equipment and changes to the home, for people who are approved.
Don’t forget feet
Painful feet, long nails or poorly fitting shoes all affect balance. A podiatrist can help.
How visits are funded
In-home allied health can be funded through Support at Home (delivered through our registered partner provider), the NDIS, or privately. With a Chronic Condition Management Plan from a GP, both physiotherapy and occupational therapy visits can be claimed through Medicare, up to the yearly number of sessions Medicare allows.
Book an assessment
We visit people at home across the suburbs near our Murrumbeena office. Learn more about allied health at home.
Book a free consultation at home or at our Murrumbeena office, or call (03) 8524 7699. There is no cost and no obligation.
If someone has fallen and is hurt, or cannot get up, call 000.