Falls Prevention: Helping Older Adults Stay Safe and Independent
9/22/2025
Teri Buedding, Aspirus Physical Therapist
One in four
Americans age 65 and older experiences a fall each year. These incidents,
identified by the National Council on Aging as the leading cause of injury for
older adults, can set off a chain of physical and emotional setbacks. Aspirus at Home works to prevent
them through tailored in-home therapy, focused balance and strength programs,
and home safety improvements that help older adults remain confident and
independent.
Older adults often
face challenges such as decreased strength, balance issues, and home hazards
like slippery surfaces, clutter, or poor lighting. Improper use of assistive
devices, such as walkers or canes, can further increase fall risk. These
factors make prevention an important part of maintaining mobility and quality
of life.
"Falls
prevention is very important because it is the number one reason people end up
leaving their home," said Teri Buedding, a physical therapist with Aspirus
at Home. "We want to make sure that people are safe and independent so
they can stay at home as long as they can."
In-home physical and
occupational therapy can help reduce the risk of falls by improving balance,
building strength, and creating safer living spaces. Individualized exercise
and gait training programs, along with adjustments to the home environment, address
each person’s unique needs and living situation.
"We work in
each person’s own environment and tailor solutions to their needs,"
Buedding said. "That could mean making sure a walker is within reach when
getting out of bed or rearranging furniture to create safer
pathways."
Aspirus also
connects patients with community resources like the Aging and Disability
Resource Center (ADRC) and the Good News Project, which help provide safety
equipment and home modifications that support independence.
Fall prevention
efforts are part of a broader goal to support healthy, independent living for
older adults. By combining education, early intervention, and collaboration
with community resources, these strategies contribute to safer homes and
stronger communities.
Aspirus at Home can
be contacted at 715-847-2600.
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