Falls

Falls can be a scary and stressful experience for elderly patients, especially those with age-related conditions. Fortunately, a physiotherapist can help improve the patient’s mobility, reduce the risk of future falls, and help them regain their confidence.

At Medella Home Physio & OT, our experienced physiotherapists provide a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan that takes into consideration each patient’s individual needs. Our goal is to ensure that each patient feels comfortable, safe, and supported throughout their journey to recovery.

What a physiotherapist will do when treating a patient at home following a fall:

  • Assess the patient’s mobility and balance, and identify any potential fall risks.
  • Develop a treatment plan to improve the patient’s strength, balance, and coordination.
  • Provide manual therapy and exercises to help the patient recover from any injuries sustained from the fall.
  • Advise and educate the patient and their family members on fall prevention strategies.
  • Provide equipment and aids to help the patient move around safely and independently.
  • Regularly review the patient’s progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.

Our physiotherapists are experts in manual handling, mobility assessment, and advice for carers and family members. They understand the unique challenges faced by elderly patients and will work with the patient and their family members to ensure that their needs are met.

If you or a loved one has experienced a fall and would like help improving your mobility, balance, and confidence, we can help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced physiotherapists.

 Preparing for a relative to return home following a fall

To prepare for a return home following a hospital stay for a fall, consider the following steps:

  1. Make sure the home environment is safe: Remove any tripping hazards, such as rugs or electrical cords, and ensure that all walkways and stairways are well lit.
  2. Arrange for necessary equipment: Consider purchasing or renting any equipment that your relative may need, such as a walker or a wheelchair.
  3. Set up a recovery area: Create a space in your relative’s home where she can comfortably rest and recover, with easy access to any necessary equipment.
  4. Plan meals and snacks: Make sure that your relative has access to nutritious and easily prepared food, as well as any medications she may need.
  5. Get help from family and friends: Consider enlisting the help of family members or friends to assist with caring for your relative and ensuring that she has the support she needs during her recovery.

To help your relative recover following their fall, consider the following steps:

  1. Encourage activity: Encourage your relative to move around as much as she is able, with the support of any necessary equipment. This will help her to regain her strength and mobility.
  2. Assist with physiotherapy: If your relative has been prescribed physiotherapy, assist her with following the recommendations of her physiotherapist. This may involve helping her with exercises and stretches.
  3. Provide emotional support: Provide your relative with emotional support and encouragement as she recovers from her fall. Listen to her concerns and offer reassurance.
  4. Manage pain: If your relative is experiencing pain, work with her healthcare provider to manage it effectively. This may involve the use of over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications.
  5. Address any underlying medical conditions: If your relative has any underlying medical conditions that may have contributed to her fall, work with her healthcare provider to address them. This may involve changes to her medication regimen or lifestyle modifications.

Remember, recovery from a fall can be a slow and gradual process, so be patient and provide your relative with the support she needs as she works towards a full recovery.