Module 4 - Factoring in your fall risk

After completing this module, you will be able to:

• determine your risk of falling over in the next 6 months​
• understand how to reduce your fall risk.

Falls are common in people with Parkinson’s disease. 60% of people with Parkinson’s disease fall each year, and two in three people with Parkinson’s will fall multiple times.​ A fall is defined as unexpected event where the person comes to rest on the ground, floor or lower level.

Exercise that includes balance and strength training can reduce falls by 25% in people with mild to moderate Parkinson’s disease​. Understanding your risk of falling is important, especially when exercising, and can assist you to prevent falling over.​

You can determine your risk of falling in the next 6 months by answering the following 3 questions.

Parkinson's disease fall prevention information

• USA Parkinson's Foundation Fall Prevention Information
• Fight Parkinson’s together we can (Australia)

Australian state-based information about preventing slips, trips and falls

• NSW - Active and Healthy Stay Active on Your Feet Booklet
• ACT - Falls and Falls Injury Prevention Program
• Queensland - Stay on Your Feet
• South Australia - Reducing My Risk of Falls
• Tasmania - Stay on Your Feet Booklet
• Victoria - Preventing Falls at Home
• Western Australia - Stay on Your Feet

Other

• Safe exercises at home for older people (Australia)