OCUPATIONAL THERAPY IN FALL PREVENTION: CASE REPORT

Abstract

Introduction Falling is not a disease or an injury by itself, but the consequences of the fall are very serious, especially for the elderly. Numerous risk factors for the occurrence of falls are known, of which it is very important to indicate and know the changing risk factors, those that health professionals can influence. A fall usually occurs when there is a combined effect or the presence of multiple risk factors. Occupational therapy plays an important role in assessing and reducing the risk of falls. Occupational therapists along with other members of the rehabilitation team assess risk of falls, designe and implement therapy plan. Method We use case report to demonstrate influence of rehabilitation on risk of fall in old person after a stroke. Case report We present the case of a 73-year-old man after a stroke and with a diagnosis of Right hemiparesis-occupational therapy perspective. The patient was referred for rehabilitation three months after the stroke. On the basis of assessment, subjective and objective, he is categorized as high risk for fall. During his stay in a rehabilitation facility for four weeks, as a part of a rehabilitation program, he had physical and occupational therapy interventions. The physiotherapist applied occupational therapy approach in assessment and therapy, as there is no educated occupational therapist in Montenegro. Conclusion Physical and occupational therapy interventions aim to reduce the risk of falls and increase the elderly's participation in essential activities. This helps people increase their level of independence and maintain dignity and satisfaction in every aspect of life.