Falls Prevention Program

Live with confidence

As our age increases, so does our risk of falling. A fall can lead to broken bones, muscle damage and serious wounds. St. John's Rehab's Falls Prevention Program helps seniors reduce their risk of falls through education, home modifications, exercise, and a medication review.

What services does the program include?

In-Home Safety Assessment: Assessments are conducted by an occupational therapist and include:

• Functional task demonstrations in your home
• Education on in-home safety
• Recommendations for assistive devices, home modifications and other community resources

Medication Assessment: Assessments and recommendations are conducted by a pharmacist who will educate you on the proper use of your medications and prescriptions. Learn about the affects of different medications and how aging and disease can impact how you manage your medications.

Group Exercise and Education: A goal-based program in an accredited hospital setting that combines exercise and education so you can maintain a healthy and safe lifestyle. Exercises focus on improving your range of motion, strength and balance. Understand the importance of exercise, discover the benefits of proper nutrition, and learn about safety inside and outside the home with our detailed education sessions.

Social Needs Screening: If needed, a social worker may make recommendations for services in your community that may help you prevent falls in the future.

Who can participate in the Falls Prevention Program?

Participants must:

• Be 65 years of age or older
• Be medically stable
• Be cognitively alert, oriented and able to follow instructions
• Have family / caregivers available to attend assessment if there are language barriers or other communication difficulties

Benefits

• Build your confidence in your ability to perform daily activities inside and outside your home
• Help reduce the risk of injury due to falling
• Regain your independence
• Promote stronger muscles and bones
• Improve your posture, balance and flexibility
• Be aware of the risk factors inside and outside the home that contribute to falls
• Improve your awareness of medication factors that increase your risk of a fall

How do I join?

To participate in the program, your physician must complete a referral form:

Falls Prevention application form (56kb pdf)

Completed forms can be faxed to 416-226-3358, mailed or dropped off at the Outpatient Office located on the main floor of the Horsfall Eaton Wing, Monday - Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.