The Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) has a robust physical therapy program. This includes our “What to do when you fall” information, which educates the patient and family/caregivers on critical actions to perform after experiencing a fall or finding a loved one on the floor. Another hallmark initiative is the VNA Balance Living Fall Prevention Program which uses the CDC’s STEADI (Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths & Injuries) initiative as a comprehensive framework aimed at reducing fall risks, particularly for older adults in home health settings. Falls are the leading cause of injury for adults 65 and over according to the CDC, and the program offers healthcare providers (including VNA clinicians) with tools to identify at-risk individuals and implement effective fall prevention strategies.
The key components of identifying at-risk individuals is through the following:
- Screening: Identify patients at risk of falls through simple questionnaires and clinical assessments (example: gait, balance tests).
- Assessing Risk Factors: Evaluate risk factors like medication side effects, vision impairments, muscle weakness, and environmental hazards.
- Intervention: Implement tailored interventions, including home modifications, strength and balance exercises, and medication adjustments in collaboration with the primary care provider.
The program also includes preventive measures – the very best thing you can do to avoid falling. These basic Fall Prevention exercises include encouraging patients to incorporate the following exercises to build strength and improve balance:
- Heel-to-Toe Walk:
- Walk in a straight line, placing one foot directly in front of the other. Helps improve balance.
- Single-Leg Stands:
- Stand on one leg for 10–15 seconds, then switch legs. Hold onto a chair for support if needed.
- Chair Squats:
- Sit down in a chair, then stand up without using hands for support. Builds lower body strength.
- Ankle Circles:
- Rotate each ankle slowly in circles to improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.
- Calf Raises:
- Stand and slowly raise onto your toes, then lower back down. This strengthens calf muscles and improves stability.
Integrating these exercises into a home health regimen can make a significant difference in fall prevention for elderly patients.
Also, the VNA has the copyright use (we were able to get this because we have certified fall prevention specialists) of the Otago Exercise Program (OEP) that was developed and tested by the very reputable New Zealand Falls Prevention Research Group to reduce falls in older persons. The OEP consists of 17 strength and balance exercises and a walking program performed three times a week by the older adult in the home, outpatient, or community setting. Exercises can be done individually or in a group setting. Studies demonstrate OEP participants experience a whopping 35 – 40% reduction in falls.
In addition to having certified fall prevention specialists, the VNA also stands out from other home care agencies because we also have:
PT/OT Low vision and Vestibular trained staff.
Nurse Practitioner/Master’s in Social Work on staff for assistance with Advance Care Planning and community resource needs.
Telehealth monitoring
Nursing for medication management
Private Care for caregiver support
Extensive Caregiver training and education for support.
CDC STEADI program, underscoring the VNA’s commitment to patient safety and distinguishing us as a leader in proactive fall prevention strategies.
OTAGO – exercise program
To learn more about the VNA’s Physical Therapy program as well as other VNA services, call 772-567-5551 or visit www.vnatc.com.
