Prevent Falls and Stay Independent:
Your Guide to Safer Living
Staying steady on your feet is more than a comfort — it’s a cornerstone of independence and quality of life. At Spear Athletics Physical Therapy, we’re committed to helping you or your loved ones maintain strength, confidence, and control with every step.
Each year, one in four older adults experiences a fall, often with serious consequences. But here’s the good news: falls are not an inevitable part of aging. With the right guidance and daily habits, you can reduce your risk and stay active, engaged, and safe.
Why Balance Matters
As we age, natural changes in strength, coordination, and reflexes can affect our balance. But just like any other skill, balance can be trained and improved. Preventing falls starts with understanding where you stand — literally and figuratively.
Ask Yourself:
Do you feel unsteady when walking?
Have you fallen in the past year?
Do you hold onto walls or furniture when moving around your home?
Do you worry about falling?
If you answered “yes” to any of these, it’s time to schedule a Fall Risk Check-Up with one of our licensed physical therapists.
Simple Steps to Prevent Falls
You don’t need to overhaul your entire lifestyle to stay upright — small, smart changes can make a big difference:
1. Stay Active
Movement builds muscle and balance. Low-impact exercises like walking, resistance training, water aerobics, and tai chi are excellent for improving stability and confidence.
2. Create a Safe Home Environment
Remove trip hazards like throw rugs and loose cords.
Install grab bars in bathrooms and handrails on stairs.
Ensure good lighting throughout your home, especially along walkways.
3. Prioritize Your Vision
Get your eyes checked at least once a year. Subtle vision changes can affect depth perception and lead to missteps.
4. Review Your Medications
Some prescriptions and even over-the-counter medications can cause dizziness or drowsiness. Have your pharmacist or doctor review everything you take.
5. Choose the Right Footwear
Avoid slippers, heels, or walking in socks. Opt for well-fitting, low-heeled shoes with non-slip soles to keep your footing secure.
How Physical Therapy Helps
At Spear Athletics, we approach fall prevention with personalized care and proven techniques. Your physical therapist will:
Evaluate your strength, gait, and balance
Identify specific risk factors unique to your lifestyle and health history
Design a customized exercise plan that fits your needs and goals
Teach you how to fall safely — and how to get back up
Help you build confidence in everyday movement
We don’t just want to keep you from falling — we want to keep you moving with purpose and pride.
Take Action Today
May is Older Americans Month, a perfect time to invest in your independence. Whether you’re 65 or 85, it’s never too early — or too late — to build better balance.
📞 Call us today to schedule your Fall Risk Check-Up.
Our expert team is here to help you stay strong, safe, and doing what you love.
Stay Strong. Stay Independent. Stay You.
At Spear Athletics Physical Therapy, we believe that prevention is the best medicine. Let’s work together to build a safer, more confident tomorrow — one steady step at a time.
