Help us support the National Council on Aging NCOA Sept. 22-26, 2025, for Falls Prevention Awareness Week (FPAW), a nationwide observance with partners to raise awareness on preventing falls, reducing the risk of falls, and helping older adults live without fear of falling.

Physical Therapy (PT) and Occupational Therapy (OT) both play critical but distinct roles in reducing fall risk for seniors. Here’s how PT contributes:

Physical Therapy – Strengthening the Body to Prevent Falls

Goal: Improve physical function, strength, balance, and mobility.

 

 

How PT Helps:

  • Improves Balance and Coordination
    • Therapists use targeted balance exercises (e.g. single leg stands, weight shifts) to improve stability.
    • Vestibular training may be included if dizziness is a factor.
  • Strengthens Muscles
    • Focus on lower body strength (hips, quads, calves), which is vital for walking, standing, and climbing stairs.
  • Enhances Flexibility and Range of Motion
    • Stretching exercises reduce stiffness, which helps prevent tripping or stumbling.
  • Gait Training
    • Therapists assess and correct how a person walks, including the use of assistive devices (canes, walkers).
  • Fall Risk Assessment
    • PTs can identify physical deficits and tailor a program to address individual needs.

Stay tuned for how OT helps and adapting life to be safer for you or your loved one.

 

Reducing Fall Risk with PT