Balance Class

Fractures are among the most common serious injury resulting from falls in older persons, according to the National Institute of Health. To prevent injuries from falls, Sharon Hospital will offer a no-cost Balance Clinic from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 19, at the hospital, 50 Hospital Hill Road. Appointments are required.

“Challenges with balance, walking and gait are very common, and if left untreated, can result in serious injuries from falls and other unexpected incidents,” said Sharon’s physical therapist Emelie Gold. “Having your balance checked is a great first step in learning how to protect yourself against falls.”

The Balance Clinic includes a private balance assessment by a physical therapist, a review of medications by a pharmacist and fall risk education by an emergency medicine provider.

The no-cost event is open to the public and is for anyone who has concerns about falls. Some risks include unstable joints, muscle weakness, decreased physical activity, sensory loss, impaired cognition, certain medications and osteoporosis.

“Older adults with multiple health impairments are at greatest risk, but many healthy adults also fall each year,” said Pamela George, director of the Sharon Hospital Emergency Department.

To schedule a Balance Clinic appointment, call the hospital’s rehabilitation department at 860-364-4065 (TTY: 800-842-9710). Learn more about rehabilitation services at healtquest.org/sharonrehab.
CONTACTS

Marina Ballantine, Public and Community Affairs Associate

O: (845) 554 1734 - mballant@health-quest.org