Falls and Fall Prevention
One of the very first lectures I attended when I started graduate school was on falls and fall prevention. Since then, we have had numerous lectures on the topic. I’m starting to think the topic might just be something to make note of as OTs. So, here’s a little synopsis on what I’ve managed to retain from those lectures, followed by a list of appropriate Assessments (click on the name to direct you to the website). Definition of fall: “A subject’s unintentionally coming to rest on the ground or on some other lower level, not as a result of major intrinsic event, for example, stroke or syncope or over whelming hazard that would result in a fall by most young, healthy persons” (Tinetti, et. Al., 1988). 33% of community dwelling elders, age 65 or older, fall at least 1 or more times a year, and the frequency increases with age. Falling leads to loss of mobility and independence; it affects all body systems. As occupational therapists, some things to take into considera...