Premier Care Homecare utilizes a systematic approach to identify and treat the underlying causes of fall risk. Our Fall Prevention and Balance Disorder program focuses on reducing the risk of injury and falls for patients that are at risk or have fallen in the past.

Our team approach consists of nurses, physical therapists, and medical social workers who develop a plan to improve the safety, balance, coordination, and ambulation of our at-risk patients. By preventing injuries and falls, our patients are able to safely remain at home.

Program Services

• Nationally recognized screening tests to determine fall risk (ABC scale, Berg and DHI scales).
• Tests to determine origin of vertigo/dizziness (BBPV, Visual, vestibular, or somatosensory)
• Education geared toward both the patient and caregiver
• Therapeutic exercises for improving strength, balance, and endurance. Techniques include:
  • Balance training
  • Brandt daroff habituation exercises
  • Dix-hallpike maneuver
  • Epley's maneuver
  • Gaze stabilization exercises
  • Log roll maneuver
  • Substitution training
• Home environment safety assessment
• Suggestions for home environment modifications
• Medications review
• Vision evaluation and home modifications
• Instruction on self-management of risk factors and disease process.
• Interdisciplinary care and nutritional support.
• Assessment of need for gait and safety assistive devices

Risk Factors that may indicate the need for the Fall Prevention program:

• Dizziness or Vertigo
• Lack of sensation in feet or lower legs (Nephropathy)
• Muscle weakness
• Unsteady while standing or walking
• Taking more than three medications
• Suffered a fall in the last year or have fear of falling
• Over the age of 65
• Must stop while walking short distances
• Arthritis-related lower extremity joining problems
• Pain during daily activities
• Requires assistance for walking
• Cardiovascular disorder
• Diabetes
• Parkinson's disease
• Dehydration
• COPD

Program Goals

• Establish appropriate clinical pathways to reduce falls and potential injury
• Increase collaboration between the patient, physician, and homecare providers
• Implement effective and efficient pathways to alleviate and control symptoms, prevent injury, improve ADLs, and quality of life related to safe movement.
• Reduce hospitalization and re-admissions secondary to fall