Ask a PT Response: "Is your mother utilizing an assistive device such as a cane or walker to help with walking/balance? If not, it may be a good idea for her to utilize an assistive device to decrease her risk for falls. From what you describe, physical therapy would defintiely be great for her. I would continue to encourage her to particpate in therapy and stress the importance of helping her prevent falls According to the CDC - among older adults, falls are the leading cause of injury deaths. They are also the most common cause of nonfatal injuries and hospital admissions for trauma ( http://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/falls/adultfalls.html - http://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/falls/adultfalls.html ). I know for a lot of my patients, independence and avoiding placement in a nursing home facility are two of the greatest reasons for participating in PT.

 

Exercises which I have my patient perform under close supervision or with contact guard assist for balance issues include and are not limited to: front lean with chair supoprt, standing side lean with chair support, one legged stand eyes closed with chair support, toe and heel raises with chair support and high stepping with chair support (see sample home exercise program attachment). Again I would recommend that you continue to encourage your mother to participate in PT. Best of luck to your mother."