DON’T FALL THIS FALL! 3 TIPS FOR FALL PREVENTION
September marks the start of fall, but it also serves as an important reminder about falling.
Improve Your Home
Falling is one of the greatest dangers seniors face. As adults age, take more medication, and lose some mobility, it becomes increasingly difficult to stay upright or regain balance — even when tripping over the smallest object. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 out of 5 falls cause serious injuries, including traumatic brain injuries. Falling can also increase a senior’s chance of falling again.
Your home just might be your biggest threat when it comes to falls, so improve it with a few changes! Install grab bars and railings on steps and in the bathtub for extra support. Grips on the bottom of the bathtub and on slippery surfaces can give you a secure footing, while lighting along the hallway and in stairwells can better illuminate walkways. Even something as simple as moving a table or decor item out of the hallway can be beneficial!
But for as common as it may be, falling doesn’t have to be your norm. You can lower your risk of falling and injury with a few simple steps.
Review Your Medicines
Move More
Sometimes medication can influence balance and movement. Talk with your doctor about the side effects of your medication and adjust accordingly. You may need to consider alternatives, but if that’s not possible, physical therapy can provide assistance. It’s designed to help you improve your balance and get stronger — which can lower your risk of falling.
Your body was designed to move! When you don’t move your body enough, which can happen when you age, your muscles and joints can become weak and stiff. The best way to strengthen your reactions and improve your balance is to move your body. A physical therapist can help you develop a routine that targets your balance while strengthening your muscles and joints.
You can learn more about fall prevention and risks online at CDC.gov.
MEET NAUREEN!
North County Water and Sports Therapy Center is excited to welcome Naureen Imam, PT, DPT, MBS, CAFS to our team.
Naureen received her bachelor's in sociology and Spanish from Emory University, where she developed a lifelong interest in both the scientific and artistic aspects of human movement. Following her undergraduate education, she pursued a master's of biomedical sciences from Rutgers University and her doctorate in physical therapy (DPT) from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. During her time in the DPT program, she found a passion in treating patients with movement disorders such as dystonia, cerebral palsy, and Parkinson's disease. She went on to pursue certifications in treating neurological and orthopedic conditions through the Parkinson's Wellness Recovery Program, LSVT BIG, and the Gray Institute. To help inspire future PTs, Naureen serves as adjunct faculty at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences and is also a certified clinical instructor. Naureen spends her free time hiking, reading, and exploring San Diego's ever-changing boba tea shops.
www.waterpt.com 2
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