Celebrate Senior Independence Month with APTQI
This February, APTQI is proud to recognize Senior Independence Month, a time dedicated to promoting community support and other resources that help older adults live full, active, and engaged lives. Data show seniors want to age safely in their own homes and communities, something physical therapy helps to facilitate. By advocating for improved access to preventative healthcare services, APTQI is helping to make this a reality for older adults nationwide.
One of the largest threats to older Americans today is falling, and with one in four older adults reporting falling, falls are the leading cause of injury for Americans ages 65 and older – often leading to loss of independence or nursing home placement. As these rates continue to rise among seniors, now is the time to advocate for solutions to prevent dangerous falls before they occur.
Physical therapy is a proven and cost-effective falls-prevention strategy that can help older patients live healthier, more active lifestyles. We urge leaders in Washington to take action and increase access to essential preventive services by passing legislation like the Stopping Addiction and Falls for the Elderly (SAFE) Act (S. 2612/H.R. 1171), which would give Medicare beneficiaries access to a no-cost falls risk assessment from a physical or occupational therapist as part of their annual wellness exam.