Maintaining Balance and Preventing Falls: A Guide from MoveWise Home Physio

At MoveWise Home Physio, we understand the importance of staying active and independent as you age. One of the biggest concerns for older Queenslanders is the risk of falls, which can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. The good news is that most falls are preventable, and there are many steps you can take to reduce your risk.

Queensland Health's "Stay On Your Feet ®" program is dedicated to helping older Queenslanders stay healthy, active, independent, and on their feet. They highlight that every day, many older Queenslanders experience falls requiring medical attention. This emphasizes the need for proactive falls prevention strategies.

Why is Balance Important?

Good balance is crucial for everyday activities, from walking and climbing stairs to reaching for items on a shelf. As we age, our balance can be affected by various factors, including changes in vision, inner ear function, muscle strength, and joint flexibility. Poor balance is a major risk factor for falls.

What Puts Older People at Risk of Falls?

Queensland Health identifies several factors that can increase an older person's risk of falling:

  • Medical Conditions: Chronic conditions like arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and neurological disorders can affect strength, sensation, and coordination.

  • Medications: Some medications can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or affect balance.

  • Vision Problems: Impaired vision can make it harder to spot hazards and navigate safely.

  • Foot Problems: Painful feet, poorly fitting footwear, or foot deformities can affect stability.

  • Environmental Hazards: Clutter, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, and slippery floors in the home can all contribute to falls.

  • Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle can lead to muscle weakness and reduced balance.

How Can You Reduce the Risk and Harm Caused by Falls?

Queensland Health and MoveWise Home Physio advocate for a multi-faceted approach to falls prevention:

  1. Stay Active: Regular physical activity, especially exercises that improve strength and balance, is one of the most effective ways to reduce fall risk. Activities like walking, tai chi, and specific balance exercises can make a big difference.

  2. Review Medications: Talk to your GP or pharmacist about your medications and whether any might be contributing to dizziness or balance problems.

  3. Get Your Vision Checked: Regular eye exams are important to ensure you can see clearly and identify potential hazards.

  4. Look After Your Feet: Wear well-fitting, supportive shoes with non-slip soles. Consider consulting a podiatrist if you have foot pain or problems.

  5. Make Your Home Safe: Identify and remove potential hazards in your home. Ensure good lighting, use non-slip mats in the bathroom and kitchen, and consider installing grab bars if needed.

  6. Talk to Your GP: Discuss any concerns about falls or balance with your GP. They can assess your individual risk factors and recommend appropriate interventions, including a referral to physiotherapy.

How MoveWise Home Physio Can Help

Our home-based physiotherapy services are tailored to address your specific needs and help you improve your balance and reduce your fall risk:

  • Comprehensive Assessment: We conduct a thorough assessment of your balance, strength, flexibility, and home environment to identify your individual risk factors.

  • Personalized Exercise Programs: We design safe and effective exercise programs that focus on improving your strength, balance, and coordination. These programs are tailored to your abilities and goals.

  • Home Environment Assessment and Modification: We can provide advice on making your home safer by identifying and suggesting modifications to reduce environmental hazards.

  • Education and Advice: We provide education on falls prevention strategies, including tips on footwear, vision, and managing medications.

  • Confidence Building: We help you build confidence in your ability to move safely and independently.

Take Action Today

Don't wait until a fall happens to take action. By being proactive and incorporating falls prevention strategies into your daily life, you can significantly reduce your risk and maintain your independence.

If you are concerned about your balance or the risk of falls, talk to your GP. A referral to MoveWise Home Physio can be the first step towards improving your balance and enjoying a safer, more active life in your own home.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.