Gait, balance, and fall prevention

Falls are an increasing problem as people age. The healthcare costs of falls (hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, equipment, homehealth services, and institutionalization) can be as high as $500 million a year. The emotional, physical, and personal costs to the individual are even higher. Most falls could be prevented by a vigilant physician anticipating, assessing, and correcting fall risks, which may be medical, mechanical, or environmental. The impact of chronic disease and medication, balance and gait, and home risks should be assessed routinely. Balance and gait can be usefully evaluated with the Get Up and Go test and the Tinetti Balance and Gait test. The test results will indicate areas of further investigation. A healthcare team approach using physician specialists, allied health professionals, and ancillary services will provide the maximum benefit to the patient. Fall prevention through proper assessment and intervention will not only decrease morbidity and mortality, but will also help maintain patient independence and quality of life, a primary goal of geriatric care.