As we age, our bodies have a much more difficult time recovering from falls. Our bones are more likely to break, and we’re more likely to experience muscle and tissue injuries. The best way to avoid injury from a fall is, of course, to not experience one in the first place. If you’re at risk of falling, or have a family member who is, VNA Homecare can help, with our Optimal Aging program.
The Optimal Aging program is designed to prevent falls and fall-related injuries by employing evidence-based examination techniques and providing best practice, individualized treatment plans to its clients. Candidates are homebound older adults living in Onondaga County who have experienced unsteadiness or any of the five signs of frailty or a decline in functional abilities such as:
- unintended weight loss of more than 10 pounds since age 60 or body mass index (BMI) of less than 18.5
- self report of exhaustion
- low energy expenditure
- slowness (walking less than 0.5m/s), and
- weakness (grip strength of less than 21 pounds)
Patients receive a multidisciplinary comprehensive exam including a multifactor falls assessment, medication review, nutritional assessment if appropriate, vestibular testing, strength and functional testing. Based on the results, recommendations may be made for environmental modifications or the provision of durable medical equipment to address extrinsic risk factors for falling.
