Physical and Occupational Rehabilitation

Your healthcare providers can  help you manage conditions and keep you on your feet!

• General wellness exams to assess your overall risk and management of falling. 
• Annual eye exams to assess vision and need for changes in prescriptions. 
• Annual hearing exams to assess possible need for hearing aids. 

Healthcare providers can help you minimize your risk of falling. During your general wellness exams, talk to your doctor about your risk of falling! 

Include in your discussion:

• Management of chronic conditions.
• Deficiencies, such as with Vitamin D, that could be contributing to weakness. 
• Medication risks (medications or combinations of medications can cause dizziness or unsteady gait).
• Health of feet/proper footwear.
• Possible safety equipment such as canes, walkers or walking poles.
• Consideration of alarm devices that can help you in case of a fall. 
• Proper exercises/exercise programs to improve balance and strength. 
• Fear of falling that may be causing you to avoid activities you used to enjoy. 

As you get older, the way medications affect your body can change. Prevent balance issues that may occur as a result of side effects or combinations of medications (including supplements and over-the-counter medications). 

Ask the following questions about your medications:

• ● Does it interact with other Medications I am taking?
• ● Are there side effects that might increase my risk of falling or prevent me from driving safely?
• ● Are there other medicines or doses to consider?
• ● If I stop or change the medicine, what side effects should I expect?

According to the CDC, six out of every 10 falls happen at home, where we tend to spend most of our time. 

Simple ways to improve your safety at home:

• Install nightlights or brighter light bulbs – a simple and economical way of adding light to dimly lit areas.
• Reduce items you can trip over (re-organize; remove loose rugs; tie up loose cords, etc.).
• Use non-slip mats in bathtubs and shower floors.
• Move frequently used items to lower shelves to reduce use of step stools/reaching.
• Be aware of pets underfoot – try using reflective /lighted collars or clipped lights on collars to help make pets more visible.

Other ways to improve home safety (ask others for help where needed):

• Install grab bars in showers and bathtubs and next to the toilet. 
• Install handrails next to stairs and steps; fix loose handrails.
• Have furniture moved out of your way to ensure a clear path.
• Install more outlets for better ability to add lighting to dimly lit areas.
• Ensure carpet is firmly attached to the floor. 

The right activities and exercises can improve strength, balance, flexibility, social connection and confidence.

In addition to discussing proper physical activities with your doctor, contact your local community or senior centers for information about exercise /balance classes, social activities and ride share options.