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Preventing Falls in Older Adults: A Multifactorial Approach

College of Health Professions at Towson University in Baltimore, Maryland

Japhia Booth, OT/L

As people age they become increasingly at risk for falling with the potential for serious injury. With the boom of individuals over age 65 enjoying an increasing life expectancy, falls will be an increasingly important health care issue. Research into fall prevention and treatment emphasizes a multi-factorial approach. This approach involves carrying out a comprehensive assessment of the whole person and surrounding environment, determining factors that create risk, and then treating all of these factors. The approach is effective because it specifically designs an intervention to target each of the factors that puts a person at risk for falling. To maximize that effectiveness, a multidisciplinary team is employed that draws on the expertise and specific skill sets of each team member. By making people aware of their increased risk for falling and providing strategies for prevention, the team can help individuals more safely remain in their homes and communities.

Key Words: falls prevention • balance • multidisciplinary • team approach

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