Physical Therapy month is the month of October. Fall Prevention week is September 23-29, usually around the start of the fall season. All of the discussion of falls and fall prevention with my peers has made me consider the issues, and has posed the question, “Are we doing our part to help our patients and the people in our community?”

I think many would agree that more people are healthier and living more active lifestyles. I heard that 50 is the new 40. Does that mean 80 is the new 70? I think it challenges us to rethink the aging process and how much control we have over our bodies and how we choose to live out our lives.

It has become routine for your doctor to ask you about any falls in the last year. Are we reporting these as we should? I cannot tell you how many times I have heard someone say, “Well, it really was not a fall, I just slipped.” That is a fall. Many people under report their “fall” history because they are afraid of what people will think. Many try to explain away the reason they fell. Many are afraid of losing their independence if they report that they are not handling themselves as well as people think they are. This one question can be the lead into getting help before there is a more serious problem.

Medication usage (polypharmacy) is a huge contributor to increased falls risk. Medications, and especially high-risk medications can place a person at risk for falls. Review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist. Be sure you have a complete list of medications, including over the counter medications. It is important to properly dispose of any medications you are no longer taking as well. The names are so confusing and the pills may look the same…don’t take a chance on taking the wrong medication.

Vision changes play a part in falls risk as well. There are many eye conditions that can decrease a patient’s ability to determine depth and position. I can speak to this personally. I have fallen just because I did not look through my lenses, but under my lenses? I know I am not alone.

There are several medical conditions that can place you at a higher risk for falls. They can include incontinence (moving too fast or wet floors), depression (medication and limited mobility outside of the home), foot problems, and low blood pressure when standing up.

NC Falls Coalition reports that 30 to 35 percent of people 65 and older fall each year. When they do fall, they are two to three times more likely to fall again. One in five falls cause serious injury.

Beaufort County has a high percentage of population over 65 years old. In the year 2000, it was between 14.5 percent and 15.9 percent. By 2030, this is expected to increase to over 16 percent. This is us — Beaufort County. Be honest with your medical team when it comes to your falls risk and history. Talk to them about your options, which may include physical therapy. It may not. It may be that one or more of the other risk factors need to be addressed. If you are not sure, just ask.

Maria Stalls, PT, CLT is manager of the Physical Therapy Department at Vidant Beaufort Hospital of Washington and can be reached at 252-975-4292.