Fall Prevention Starts With Movement, Says Saint Vincent Hospital Physical Therapist

The Small Signs That Could Point to a Bigger Fall Risk

By-Hank Stolz
Graphic-Radio Worcester

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Worcester, MA- Fall Prevention Starts With Movement, Says Saint Vincent Physical Therapist Rebecca Reed.

This discussion on fall prevention features Rebecca Reed, PT, DPT, lead outpatient therapist at St. Vincent Hospital Rehabilitation Services. Reed explains that fall risk increases with age due to factors including medication side effects, arthritis, and muscle weakness that creates a downward spiral when people stop moving. She emphasizes that much of this decline is preventable through safe movement strategies like aquatic exercise and chair yoga, available through resources such as senior centers. She says, “If I could give myself a dollar for every time I said an object in motion stays in motion, I would be a very rich person. I say it all the time, ‘You’ve got to keep moving.’ That’s what we’re here to empower people to do.”

Warning Signs of Increased Fall Risk

Key warning signs of increased fall risk include history of falls (which raises recurrence risk to 50%), unsteadiness, holding onto walls or furniture while walking, and other signs to watch for, “You’ll notice that your family member, if they’re say walking in the grocery store and they’re looking for something, they’ll stop while they turn their head to look for it versus somebody who’s a little bit younger, a little bit more balanced, you’ll notice you can walk through the grocery store and scan those aisles up, down, side to side without really even changing your pace.” Reed tells us, “If somebody over the age of 65 has a history of falls, the rate of a reccurring fall is increased to 50%.”

Winter Hazards and Home Safety

Winter brings particular hazards through increased sedentary behavior plus ice and snow conditions. Reed recommends home safety modifications: removing throw rugs, installing nightlights, adding bathroom grab bars, using “reachers” for high or low items, and wearing supportive footwear with good traction. She stresses proactive physical therapy evaluation through physician referral to address balance before falls occur, noting that St. Vincent Hospital Rehabilitation Services can be reached at 508-363-6205.