The prevalence of falls amongst the senior population are an unfortunate one. The CDC has cited that 1 out of every 3 seniors (those aged 65 and older) fall each year, and that these falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for those in this age demographic. This harsh winter weather isn’t making it any easier for seniors to stay on their feet either. Black ice has been cited all over parking lots, sidewalks, driveways and walkways throughout Long Island.

The good news is, falls don’t have to be a normal part of aging. With a physical therapy programcomplemented by home exercises, the likelihood of these injury-inflicting falls can be significantly decreased. At Metro Physical & Aquatic Therapy, we ensure that every senior we see receives a Risk Prevention Screening before we commence any sort of therapy. This entails using a computerized mechanism to calculate their balance through the use of their legs and their core muscles, to ultimately quantify how much of a risk they are at falling. With this, we build a therapy program specific for them that strengthens their muscles and cognitive reception so that they can live happier, more independent lives and be less likely to have a traumatic fall.

Most of our locations also have heated pools that seniors can use for improving their balance and coordination in a non-weight-bearing environment. We have aquatic therapy and exercise programs specialized for seniors that target their leg and core muscles and aim to improve upon them, ultimately to decrease their risk of falling.

All of Metro’s physical therapists work one-on-one with each and every patient so that they feel comfortable throughout their entire session and receive the personal care that they deserve. Our therapists also follow up with every patient to ensure that they are not only keeping up with their home exercises, if necessary, but also touch base to make sure that they are continuing to live their lives happily and healthily.