At Fort Lee Physical Therapy, we can work with you to help restore balance, advise on walking aids or help you prevent falls at home.
There’s only one thing you can never stop in this world — and that is Aging. It may have a bad reputation, however, that shouldn’t stop you from being active and achieve a better lifestyle. Growing age doesn’t necessarily mean health deterioration. We can change than stigma and continue to live an active and healthy …
Falls in the elderly are the leading cause of fatal as well as non-fatal injuries. Thirty percent of people over the age of 65 will fall each year – which is why I feel it necessary to share some ways that you can decrease the chances of falls in your (or your loved ones) home.
Did you know that the U.S. spends approximately $20.2 billion every year to treat the injuries of older people after falls, and that the majority of the cost is for hip fracture care? The most common types of injuries sustained after falls include: hip, spine, and wrist fractures as well as head trauma. These types of injuries can result in serious disabilities as well as lengthy rehabilitation.
It is absolutely crucial for anyone living with the elderly, or on their own, to be aware of this situation and do everything in their power to prevent falls in the home. The best thing you can do to reduce the possibility of falls is to safe your living environment (or the environment of the person you’re worried about).
Walking aids are helpful for patients who have chronic problems, including hip and knee arthritis, as well as those who have acute injuries, such as ankle sprains and leg fractures. It is important to find which aid will best suit your particular situation.
Here are the 5 main types along with some information about each:
Single-Point Cane: A single-point cane is helpful for conditions where a little bit of extra support can help to alleviate pain and discomfort. A single-point cane is the easiest way to support to the leg, but is not an appropriate option if weight must be completely removed from the extremity.
