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Falls Prevention Program

Risk Factors for Falls

  • Feeling unsteady when walking
  • Problems with balance
  • Impaired vision
  • Impaired cognition
  • Personal hazards (inappropriate footwear or clothing)
  • Environmental hazards (loose rugs, uneven sidewalks)
  • Use of multiple medications
  • Previous history of falls
  • Alcohol consumption

The Falls Prevention Program is a branch of Specialized Geriatric Services, and a member of the Regional Geriatric Program of Toronto.  Located in H-Wing, the program provides consultation with a geriatrician and physiotherapist to assess people over the age of 65 who are having falls or are at risk of falling. This six-week, group exercise program is designed to improve strenght, balance and gait, and is run by a registered physiotherapist. Education sessions include information about home safety,  home exercises and safe medication practices.

What is the Falls Prevention Program?

  • Consultation with a geriatrician, nurse, physiotherapist and occupational therapist
  • A group exercise program designed to imrpove overall strength, balance and gait
  • Home safety information session
  • Home exercise information session
  • A twice a week program for a period of 6 weeks

Who should attend?

  • Anyone over the age of 65 who experiences falls, or is at a high risk for falls
  • People who are able to safely take part in a supervised exercise program
  • People who are able to walk 25 metres

Why should I attend?

  • 1 in 3 seniors will suffer a fall this year
  • Falls can result in serious injury and hospitalization
  • Fear of falling can lead many seniors to withdraw from activities
  • Many falls are preventable
  • Intervention by a health care team has bene shown to reduce falls

How do I sign up?

Admission to the Falls Prevention Program requires a referral from a physician and an assessment by both a geriatrician and physiotherapist.  For more information, please visit our Geriatric Services referral page.