Fall Prevention
What is one common cause of falls among older adults?
Poor balance or muscle weakness.
What is the main goal of physical therapy?
To improve movement, reduce pain, and restore function
The medical costs of fall injuries in older adults are estimated to be over _______ annually in the U.S.
$50 billion
Why does ice increase the risk of falling?
It makes surfaces slippery
What is one of the most important factors to consider when planning discharge from an inpatient rehab facility?
A) Patient’s favorite food
B) Patient’s functional independence level
C) Weather conditions
D) Length of hospital stay
B) Patient’s functional independence level
Name a type of footwear that can help reduce the risk of falls.
Non-slip socks, well-fitting shoes.
What is the primary goal of occupational therapy?
To help people participate in the activities (occupations) they want or need to do in daily life
About __________ aged 65 and older falls each year.
1 in 4 people
True or False: Wearing shoes with smooth soles is a good way to prevent slipping
False: Smooth soles provide less grip and increase slipping risk.
True or False: Discharge recommendations always include a follow-up appointment with the primary care physician or specialist.
True: Follow-up with healthcare providers is essential for continued care.
True or False: It’s safe to use a chair without armrests to help you stand up.
False: Chairs with armrests provide better support.
What type of therapy is often recommended to continue after discharge from inpatient rehab?
A) Physical therapy
B) Occupational therapy
C) Speech therapy
D) Any or all of the above, depending on patient needs
D) Any or all of the above, depending on patient needs
— Therapy types vary based on individual rehabilitation goals.
What is the lleading cause of injury-related emergency room visits and hospitalizations among older adults?
Falls
Which environmental factor can help reduce ice-related falls outside a home?
A) Applying salt or sand to walkways
B) Installing more outdoor lights
C) Planting more trees
D) Closing windows tightly
A) Applying salt or sand to walkways
What is a common recommendation regarding medications at discharge?
Review and reconcile medications with the patient and caregivers
— Prevents medication errors and ensures understanding.
Why should rugs be secured or removed to prevent falls?
Loose rugs can slip and cause trips and falls.
What is the primary goal of speech therapy during inpatient rehabilitation?
A) Improving physical strength and mobility
B) Restoring communication, cognitive skills, and safe swallowing abilities
C) Managing pain and inflammation
D) Teaching new languages
B) Restoring communication, cognitive skills, and safe swallowing abilities
What is a common injury resulting from a fall on ice?
A) Broken arm or wrist
B) Head injury
C) Hip fracture
D) All of the above
D) All the above
What household item can help prevent falls when getting in and out of the shower?
Grab bars or non-slip mats.
Which option is often recommended if the patient is not safe to return home immediately after discharge?
A) Discharge to a skilled nursing facility or assisted living
B) Discharge to a hotel
C) Discharge without follow-up
D) Discharge to a shopping mall
A) Discharge to a skilled nursing facility or assisted living
Name a common medication side effect that can increase fall risk.
Dizziness or drowsiness.
How many hours a day do people typically receive therapy in an inpatient rehab facility?
3 hours for 5 days a week
What are 3 factors that cause falls?
Intrinsic: lower-body weakness, balance issues, vision impairment, medications (e.g., sedatives), cognitive decline, chronic conditions
Extrinsic: poor lighting, loose rugs, uneven stairs—common in household environments
How often should you have your vision checked to help prevent falls?
At least once a year.
True or False: Discharge recommendations always include a follow-up appointment with the primary care physician or specialist.
True
— Follow-up with healthcare providers is essential for continued care.