Hello! My name is Dr. Lauren Braley, and I am a Physical Therapist (PT), Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), and Neurologic Clinical Specialist (NCS).
My career journey has led me to specialize in fall prevention, an area I’m deeply passionate about.
Currently, I serve at Oakwood Creative Care, where my role involves educating others on preventing falls, a significant concern for aging populations, as well as bringing forth awareness and support to those living with Parkinson’s Disease.
Every year, the National Council on Aging champions fall prevention through Fall Prevention Awareness Week. Although this week has already passed, there is no time like the present to remind ourselves and our loved ones about the importance of staying strong, steady, and safe! Falls are one of the leading causes of injury for older adults, but the good news is that many falls are preventable with the right strategies in place.
As a Physical Therapist with years of experience, we asked Dr. Lauren Braley what fundamental yet simple changes individuals can make to prevent falls and maintain their independence. Here’s what she shared:
Q: What Makes Fall Prevention Critical to Independence?
Dr. Braley says that falls can quickly take away the independence that many older adults and people with disabilities cherish. A fall often leads to reduced mobility and a fear of falling again, which can result in isolation and loss of confidence. That’s why prevention is key.
The Power of Prevention: Dr. Braley’s Phyical Therapy Perspective
Through her work, Dr. Braley has guided countless individuals in implementing strategies to prevent falls while also empowering them to live confidently. Here are her key recommendations:
Strength & Balance Training: Regular exercises targeting strength and balance can dramatically reduce fall risk. Activities like Tai Chi are especially effective in improving stability, flexibility, and coordination. Even simple movements, such as standing on one leg or gentle stretching, can help enhance balance.
Home Safety Assessments: Dr. Braley recommends home safety assessments to identify potential hazards such as loose rugs, poor lighting, or cluttered pathways. For those in Arizona, MEASURAbilities offers free in-home assessments, providing personalized advice and solutions to prevent falls, like grab bars or non-slip mats that can make a significant difference.
Education & Awareness: Dr. Braley stresses that education plays a critical role in preventing falls. For those local to Arizona, there’s a free program called Matter of Balance, an 8-week course offered at various locations across the valley. This program educates participants about fall risks and provides strategies to reduce them.
Get Started with Fall Prevention Today!
Many resources, including evidence-based programs, are available to help older adults stay active and reduce their risk of falls. As a Physical Therapist, Dr. Braley can guide you through personalized strategies to stay strong and independent. Check out some of her videos below to get an idea of what some of these strategies could look like:
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The impacts of Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other age-related issues affect the entire family. Oakwood Creative Care provides services, education, and support to help you ensure you never have to navigate through this journey alone.
