There are a lot of things you can do to help yourself (see How can I help myself?) but there are also experienced professionals who can offer very useful advice. Depending on the country you live in your doctor may be your first contact and they may refer you to another expert. You may also be able to book an appointment direct, although it is likely you will have to pay for this yourself.
In some countries there are Parkinson’s Disease Nurse Specialist or nurses who specialise in neurology who have considerable experience in dealing with falls. Ask your doctor for a referral.
You may also find appointments with a physiotherapist or an occupational therapist helpful. Which therapist you are referred to will depend on the country in which you live, the resources available, and your individual needs. It is hard to generalise, but the following broadly describes the help you may receive:
Physiotherapists
A physiotherapist will address specific problems related to:
- posture
- gait
- balance and falls
- transfers
- reaching and grasping.
They will give you an exercise programme and strategies to address your specific problems in daily life. Exercises are very important in preventing or reducing muscle stiffness, which will in turn reduce the risks of instability and falling. Good posture is important in keeping your balance and you may be advised on exercises to help with maintaining or improving your physical fitness and posture.
The following video clips of strategies people have found helpful in improving posture may be useful:
- the importance of improving posture
- trick for improving posture
- improving posture when seated
- avoid stooping by Nordic walking.
Physiotherapists can also train or advise your carer on your exercises and suggest appropriate ways of helping you to move, for example getting out of bed safely, and prevent or reduce your risk of falling. If you have difficulty with specific tasks they can teach you different motor control strategies so that these tasks are as easy and safe as possible.
If you experience frequent falls, a physiotherapist can teach you different ways to get yourself up and moving again, and help restore your confidence. The following strategies may also be helpful:
Physiotherapy
Occupational therapists
An occupational therapist will be able to help you achieve maximum independence whatever your disabilities or symptoms. They can assess your home and daily routine then suggest ways of making activities as safe and as manageable as possible. Often just very simple adjustments to the set up of your kitchen or bathroom, for example, can make a big difference to your mobility, quality of life and risk of falling. They can also advise on practical aids, equipment or adaptations that might help you, as well as suggestions to improve your ability to carry out specific tasks such as dressing or cooking.
Occupational Therapy
Podiatrists
If you have a foot disorder a podiatrist will be able to give you advice to help reduce any related distress or disability that may be causing you to fall. They will also be able to suggest the most suitable types of footwear to prevent falls.
