Fall Risk Program
According to the National Council on Aging, falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans. One in four Americans aged 65 and older fall each year; falls result in more than 2.8 million injuries treated in emergency departments annually, including more than 800,000 hospitalizations and 27,000 deaths.
Even for younger patients, falling presents a major obstacle toward recovery. When the body is healing, the sudden trauma of a fall can complicate wounds, create additional stresses on the body and extend the amount of time a person spends incapacitated. Preventing falls is an important step in a recovery plan.
Our home health team is dedicated to preventing falls
Our team recognizes the importance of reducing fall risks. Our philosophy revolves around ensuring that our patients can enjoy the comforts of home while recovering. That is why we take significant steps to make the home as safe an environment as possible.
All patients receive a comprehensive fall risk assessment based on national protocols. If a fall risk is identified, a physical therapist is brought into the patients care to collaborate on the treatment plan, alongside the physician, patient and nurse.
What can I expect from the Fall Risk program
- Personalized one on one fall safety assessment, which includes home safety
- Personal treatment plan with specific goals
- Assessment for durable medical equipment (DME) to enable patient to function safely at home
- Education to patients and caregivers on safe transfer techniques, ambulation safety and fall prevention techniques
- Training in the use of DME, such as cane, walker and wheelchair