What evidence-based fall prevention practices do physical therapists use?

Identifying strategies to prevent falls requires a comprehensive approach. This is where evidence-based fall prevention comes into play. 

Comprehensive assessments of fall risk can be facilitated by a multidisciplinary team. That includes family physicians, geriatricians, nurses, occupational therapists and physical therapists.

Evidence-based fall prevention emphasizes the need for training practices. It can help to improve cognitive and physical functioning; it also seeks to boost an individual’s ability to perform activities of daily living. The interventions identified here can be very effective in preventing falls in older adults.

3 evidence-based fall prevention practices physical therapists may use

1. Balance training — Balance training is a common evidence-based fall prevention practice. It is a specialized exercise program that incorporates a variety of movements and exercises intended to help older adults prevent falls. Typically balance training programs are built to fit the needs of each patient. 

2. Patient education — Do you know what could cause you to fall? You probably know a few fall risk factors, but there are likely quite a few that you haven’t considered before. That’s why patient education is an evidence-based fall prevention practice that physical therapists commonly employ. Your physical therapist can go over a wide variety of fall hazards. They can even come to your home or workplace and do an assessment to see what fall risks are present. They can then talk with you about the risks they see and how you might address them. 

3. Tai chi for better balance — Tai chi is an ancient Chinese practice that can help to improve balance and reduce falls in older adults, and research supports this. Not only that, but it can also help improve strength, flexibility and mental focus. Tai chi is a slow-paced set of movements done with deep breathing. It uses very little equipment, and it can be practiced right in the comfort of your own home.

Find effective evidence-based fall prevention practices at Peak Performance SPT

Our Peak Performance SPT physical therapists can offer custom PT plans for people at risk of falling. These plans are built on evidence-based fall prevention practices and geared to helping you become more confident in your daily activities. 

Contact us to schedule a free screening to determine your fall risk and start addressing your risks.