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Falling can be a devastating experience—both physically and emotionally. In fact, falls are the number one cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among older adults; yet, research shows that about half of these falls are preventable. It’s much easier to prevent a fall than to treat the resulting injuries, but finding the right care can be hard on your own. That’s why StandStrong is here to help. Occupational therapy provided by our partners helps prevent falls, is covered by Medicare and assists patients in focusing on what’s important: healthy and independent living.StandStrong is dedicated to helping provide the most effective ways to prevent falls. Our network of occupational therapists are highly qualified and trained in fall prevention interventions for older adults, making each patient’s daily activities safer and less risky. Connect with one of StandStrong’s local occupational therapists to start your journey to safer and more independent living today.
How do occupational therapists help prevent falls?
Preventing a fall isn’t as simple as watching your step. Occupational therapy is crucial in every patient’s fall prevention efforts, helping them stay safe at home in a variety of ways, including:- Assessing your home environment. Studies show that most falls occur at home. An occupational therapist can thoroughly examine your home for any risk factors or hazards that might increase your chances of falling. From here, they can help you make the necessary changes to keep your home safe.
- Strengthening the body. Just as physical therapy helps an athlete perform on the field, occupational therapy can help you perform your daily tasks more safely, effectively and independently. Your occupational therapist can help you improve your strength and balance while providing advice and training on avoiding falls in your kitchen, bathroom and other areas of your home.
- Keeping your loved ones informed. Preventing a fall is much easier with extra help! With your permission, your occupational therapist will help keep your family and/or caretakers “in the know” on any daily tasks that you may need assistance with.
What makes an occupational therapist qualified?
As someone who takes personal health very seriously, you do not want an unqualified practitioner to evaluate and treat you. StandStrong understands this, and that's why StandStrong’s network of occupational therapists have undergone extensive training in fall prevention techniques. But what does it mean for your practitioner to be qualified? Every occupational therapist in the StandStrong network is required to meet the following American Occupational Therapy Association standards:- They must receive either a master’s or doctoral degree in occupational therapy from an accredited institution. This means that their academic career and achievements are all universally recognized by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education.
- They must gain at least twenty-four weeks of on-the-job experience as an occupational therapist. This is a guided practice that is overseen by a qualified professional.
- They must pass a certification exam from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy. Passing this exam is a legal requirement to become a licensed practitioner in all states.
- StandStrong requires at least three years of licensed occupational therapy practice.
