St. Mary offers a range of fall risk and assessment programs for seniors.  The hospital currently offers two programs: the Senior Fit exercise program for seniors considered "not at risk" for a fall and a balance "small group" program for those with a minimal risk of incurring a fall which is also funded by the Archstone Foundation.  The third program is the Fall Prevention Program which consists of three parts: a physical assessment and treatment program, a home assessment, and a medical assessment provided by the patient's physician."

"The physical assessment is used to identify physical weaknesses or imbalances that a senior might have that could lead to a fall," Bazant notes. Based on the assessment, seniors are placed into one of four levels of physical movement programs. The most mobile seniors will participate in a regular exercise program to maintain mobility. Those with limited mobility will enroll in a balance program, a more intense fall prevention physical therapy program in a small class setting, or a one-on-one physical therapy program for those with the highest risk. "The programs are developed using the Berg Balance Test, which is a widely accepted method of determining fall risk," explains Bazant.

"The home assessment is extremely valuable, as it identifies hazards in the senior's living environment," says Bazant. "And many of the items that are identified as unsafe might not be seen as hazards by the senior or by family members." The assessment looks for things like throw rugs, low stools and other furniture that could pose a hazard. "Lighting is also important," Bazant says. "Especially on stairs. We also look at bathrooms and recommend grab bars in the bath or shower and around the toilet."

The last assessment is conducted with the senior's physician to determine if any of the medications prescribed to the senior might interfere with balance or coherence -- things that can lead to a fall. Vision tests are also conducted to ensure that seniors eyesight is as clear as possible.

For reservations or more information, please call 1-888-4STMARY.