{"id":7238,"date":"2018-09-14T13:37:06","date_gmt":"2018-09-14T17:37:06","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.ottoolkit.com\/blog\/?p=7238"},"modified":"2019-11-22T20:52:21","modified_gmt":"2019-11-23T00:52:21","slug":"developing-a-falls-prevention-program-10-key-elements","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ottoolkit.com\/blog\/developing-a-falls-prevention-program-10-key-elements\/","title":{"rendered":"Developing a Falls Prevention Program? 10 Key Elements"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"<\/p>\n

Falls happens in an instant \u2013 a missed step, a curled-up rug, an untied shoe – and your patient is on the ground. Falls are on the rise in the U.S. with deadly implications (CDC website). So, as you look for a comprehensive falls prevention program for your OT patients or your OT facility, look for these ten elements.<\/p>\n

Enjoy!
\nCheryl Hall, OT
\nAuthor and Illustrator, Occupational Therapy Toolkit<\/p>\n

    \n<\/li>\n
  1. Survey of Risk Factors<\/strong> \u2013 More risk factors increase the chance of a fall, so it is important to have a comprehensive checklist of potential hazards to review with the patient. The list should include personal factors like age and health conditions; environmental conditions like scatter rugs and poor lighting, as well as behaviors like multitasking and not using handrails. The survey should be done with the patient and the results shared with caregivers, family members and the rest of the health care team.<\/li>\n
  2. Increased Activity<\/strong> \u2013 Not only do active people fall less, but they are less likely to be hurt if they do fall. A good falls prevention program will include a plan to build strength, balance and flexibility. OTs can help patients design a home exercise program at that addresses all three elements. Look for programs that are evidence-based like Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance\u00a9<\/a>.<\/li>\n
  3. Creating a Safe Home<\/strong> \u2013 Most falls occur at home, so the program should include a walk-through of the patient\u2019s home and yard with special attention to the three major problem areas: stairs, the bathroom and the bedroom. Lighting, trip hazards and adaptive equipment should all be evaluated and addressed. <\/li>\n
  4. Safety Away from Home<\/strong> \u2013 Control diminishes when leaving home, so awareness needs to increase. A good program will cover the unique hazards patients will encounter outside the home like curbs, weather, transportation and crowds. <\/li>\n
  5. Healthy Feet\/ Safe Footwear and Clothing<\/strong> \u2013 A good falls prevention program will address foot health including self-inspection and when to consult with a physician. The program should make recommendations for footwear choice and fit, as well as clothing that should be avoided.<\/li>\n
  6. Impact of Chronic and Short-Term Illnesses<\/strong> \u2013 Health issues can increase a patient\u2019s risk of falling. Blood pressure fluctuations, diabetes, stroke, arthritis, Parkinson\u2019s and osteoporosis all put a patient at higher risk of falling or injury. The potential impact of short-term illnesses, like the flu, should also be addressed.<\/li>\n
  7. Side Effects of Medication<\/strong> \u2013 Prescriptions and over-the-counter medications can cause drowsiness, dizziness or fainting all of which can lead to a fall. A good program will include a way for patients to track medications and their side effects. Patients should be encouraged to discuss increased risk with their doctor or pharmacist.<\/li>\n
  8. Effects of Falling<\/strong> \u2013 Patients may be more likely to comply with a falls prevention program if they understand the impact of falling. Injury is the key risk, but once a patient has fallen they may be fearful of participating in activities. Falling will impact quality of life, so share these facts from the CDC\u2019s website. Even I found them alarming!\n