At Terry Physical Therapy, we often work with couples who have been together for decades. They’ve shared every stage of their lives and still have each other as they move into their golden years. Aging brings new challenges, but these couples are excited to face them together!
One of those challenges, of course, is falling. Falls are a significant source of injury for adults over 65, and many people become fearful of falling as they get older, which means they’re less likely to be physically active.
The good news is that you can address your fall risk with our fall prevention services. If you’re an older adult, we encourage you and your partner to fall in love with fall prevention this February. By working with our physical therapists, you can ensure you and your sweetheart stay active and healthy–even if you aren’t as young as you used to be!
Understanding You and Your Loved One’s Fall Risks
The first step in preventing falls is understanding your fall risk. Everyone’s risk is different, as no single factor determines your likelihood of a fall; instead, it’s a complex blend of age, lifestyle choices, and health conditions.
Consider taking some time with your loved one this February to review each other’s fall risks. Go through this checklist together; the more factors apply, the higher your risk–and the more you’ll benefit from fall prevention at Terry Physical Therapy.
Fall Risk Checklist
- Advanced age (60 years or older)
- Being female (women are more likely to suffer falls than men)
- Joint pain, including from arthritis
- Dizziness or vertigo (a spinning sensation)
- Decline in vision or hearing
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Impaired balance or gait
- Weakness in the lower body
- Use of medications that can cause dizziness or balance issues
- Neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer’s
- Stroke survivor
- A history of falls
Fall Prevention Programs: What to Expect
Are you and your partner ready to start addressing your fall risk together? Our team of physical therapists is here to help!
Our fall prevention programs focus on improving mobility, balance, and overall strength, with each plan tailored to your unique needs. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect:
A Comprehensive Assessment
We’ll begin with an in-depth evaluation of your strength, mobility, balance, and walking patterns. We’ll also take a health history to determine if your medication or current conditions might increase your risk.
A Personalized Exercise Plan
Tailored exercises are a big part of our fall prevention programs. These generally include the following:
- Strength training, particularly in the legs and core, enhances stability and balance to help keep you on your feet.
- Balance training features exercises that specifically target coordination and stability.
- Functional exercises mimic daily activities, like getting out of a chair or climbing stairs, to improve mobility and confidence.
Gait Training
Your gait is your particular way of walking. If it’s impaired, you’re more likely to suffer a fall. We can work with you to address any gait issues. In some cases, we may guide you in using assistive devices such as canes or walkers.
Home Modifications
Several simple modifications, such as removing throw rugs, installing handrails, and improving lighting, can make your home safer for you and your partner. We’ll help you identify which factors can improve your home situation so you can work with your loved one to make your home safer for both of you.
Regular Exercise Program
Staying active plays a significant role in keeping you from a fall. We’ll help you develop an at-home exercise program you and your sweetie can do together, such as evening walks, morning Tai Chi, or modified dance lessons.
Discover the Benefits of Fall Prevention
Our fall prevention programs aren’t just about safety–they’re also about enhancing the quality of life for you and your loved one. Participating in a fall prevention program with your lifelong valentine will help both of you restore confidence, mobility, and independence so you can enjoy your sunset years together.
If you’re ready to take steps toward better balance and stability, schedule an initial assessment with the team at Terry Physical Therapy. Together, you and your partner can fall in love with fall prevention.
Celebrate love with this delightful Valentine’s Day recipe! Whether you’re sharing it with someone special or treating yourself, this dish is bursting with flavor and charm. From its vibrant presentation to its irresistible taste, it’s the perfect way to savor the sweetness of the season. 💕
Feel Better by Eating Better!
Valentine’s White Chocolate Raspberry Smoothie
1 tbsp white chocolate chips
1/2 cup nonfat vanilla Greek yogurt
3/4 cup frozen raspberries
1 cup almond milk/milk of choice
1/2 cup ice
Fresh raspberries for garnish (optional)
In a small microwave safe bowl, heat white chocolate chips about 30 seconds and stir until smooth and melted through. Set aside to cool slightly. Add all ingredients, including melted chocolate, to a blender (or bullet, food processor, etc). Blend until smooth. Pour into glasses and top with fresh berries. Enjoy!
February is Heart Health Month
When’s the last time you thought about your heart health? February is heart health month, so there’s no better time to give one of your most essential organs the attention it deserves.
According to the National Library of Medicine, an estimated 16.3 million Americans aged 20 and older have coronary heart disease (CHD). The symptoms of CHD include heart attacks and chest pain. In the United States, 7.9 million individuals have suffered from heart attacks, and 9 million have experienced chest pain.
These statistics can be alarming, but rest assured that there are several ways you can help improve your heart health! The therapists at Terry Physical Therapy have put together a list of manageable lifestyle changes you can make as soon as today to ensure good heart health for years to come.
1. Exercise regularly
Regular physical activity can help you gain muscle strength and endurance. Exercise helps your cardiovascular system work more efficiently by delivering oxygen and nutrients to your tissues.
If you are not currently exercising regularly, start by taking a ten-minute walk around your neighborhood each day. From there, increase the amount of time you walk each day and quicken your pace. You will eventually be able to work up to a more strenuous activity, like running or biking.
2. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables
According to a study published in the International Journal of Epidemiology, eating ten servings of fruits and vegetables a day can lower your risk of cardiovascular disease by 28% and premature death by 31%.
Ten servings may sound like a lot, but remember that there are many ways to up your fruit and veggie intake. You could add fruit to your water, add vegetables to your fruit smoothie, and snack on carrots and hummus during the day instead of chips.
3. Manage your stress
Did you know that there are over 1,400 biochemical responses to stress? Some of these include a rise in blood pressure and a faster heart rate. For these reasons, stress can have long-term adverse effects on your health.
Try to take the time out of your day to practice mindfulness and check in with your body. Deep breathing activities and meditation can do wonders for anxiety. Practicing yoga may also help you decrease your stress levels.
Exercise of the Month
Single Leg Balance (Ankle)
Start by standing up straight with your feet close together. Slowly raise one foot off the ground slightly. Make sure to brace your abdominals. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat twice on both legs.
You Deserve to Feel Your Best!
Ready to continue your progress? Schedule your next appointment with Terry Physical Therapy today, and let’s get you back to feeling your best! Whether you’re recovering from an injury or maintaining your wellness, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
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Remaining Active in the Winter
Do you find it challenging to keep active when it’s cold outside? At Terry Physical Therapy, our physical therapists will help you find ways to stay active no matter the weather conditions!
One of the most critical steps to take is to wear suitable outdoor clothing, including:
- Choose tightly woven, preferably wind-resistant jackets
- Learn to “layer up” in light, warm clothing
- Cover your head, hands, and feet with hats, gloves/mittens, and insulated/waterproof boots
The most common injuries related to cold weather happen from falls on icy sidewalks, steps, driveways, and porches. Do your best to keep your steps and walkways free of ice with sand, salt, or cat litter. If you plan to run or walk on snowy, icy surfaces, attaching snow or ice spikes to your boots or running shoes will help you maintain traction to reduce the risk of falls.
At Terry Physical Therapy, we will guide you through proven strategies to minimize your risks of injury while helping you stay active this winter!
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Meet Our Team
Administration
Marsha Terry
RN MSN- Administrator
Letty Rosales
Office Manager
Monica Gutierrez
Billing Manager
