When does a simple slip of the foot mean something more serious? When does thinking you’re “just klutzy” stop being an answer and start to raise serious concerns? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), each year, 3 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall-related injuries. And Over 800,000 patients a year are hospitalized because of a fall injury, most often because of a head injury or hip fracture.
Medical professionals are finding that these occurrences are rarely a one-time event, and more often an indicator of a more complicated physical or environmental issue. Because of this, specialists are facilitating more proactive care by making more resources available to individuals at risk.
Falls remain the most common cause of traumatic brain injury and fractures of bones/hips. Severe or frequent falls can contribute to the loss of independence, but acknowledging any risky behaviors, habits and hazards that lead to trips and slips can help greatly with fall prevention.
Parkview resources
Parkview Trauma Centers now offers A Matter of Balance, a month-long learning opportunity for those interested in gaining control of their fall risk and improving their strength and resiliency. Lauren Quandt, RN, injury prevention coordinator, Parkview Trauma Services, will guide participants through safety, prevention and adaptation techniques for falls.
This is a great option for those who are:
- concerned about falls
- have sustained a fall in the past
- restrict activities because of concerns about falling
- are interested in improving flexibility, balance and strength
- over 60
For more information on the class, call Lauren at 260-266-1289.
Additionally, Parkview Neurosciences Fall Prevention Clinic believes that one fall is one fall too many. The clinic provides assessments for anyone noticing a change in balance or tendency to fall and provides the collaborative expertise of multiple specialists. The unique, multidisciplinary approach provides an opportunity for individualized, comprehensive fall prevention, including therapies, exercises, home assessments/environmental risk assessments, medical reconciliation, neurological workup and discussion of available resources. Ask your physician if a referral to the Fall Prevention Clinic is appropriate for you.
