How Physiotherapy Helps With Falls Prevention for Seniors in Burlington
- Folarin Babatunde PT PhD
- Sep 11
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 18
Cogent Rehab Blog
Folarin Babatunde PT PhD MScSEM MScPT BScPT
September 12, 2025
Falls are one of the leading causes of injury in older adults. A fall occurs when a person unintentionally comes to rest on the ground or a lower surface without an external force. Falls can result in fractures, reduced mobility, and even long-term loss of independence. Indirectly, they may also contribute to physical weakness, cognitive decline, social isolation, and increased mortality.
As we age, changes in balance and postural control raise the risk of falling. Globally, around 300,000 people die every year due to falls. In Canada, the numbers are significant:
1 in 3 seniors over age 65 fall each year.
80,000+ Canadian seniors are hospitalized annually due to fall-related injuries.
Falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations in older adults and account for billions in health care costs.
In Burlington, falls prevention physiotherapy plays a critical role in helping seniors stay active, safe, and independent.
What Are Falls?
A fall is defined as an event that leads to unexpected contact with a surface (floor, ground, or furniture), not caused by fainting, medical emergencies, or being pushed.
A near-fall occurs when someone stumbles or loses balance but manages to catch themselves before hitting the ground.
Common Risk Factors for Falls
Falls usually result from a combination of internal (health-related) and external (environmental/lifestyle-related) factors.
👉 The more of these risk factors you have, the greater your risk of falling. A Balance & Falls Rehabilitation Program at Cogent Rehab in Burlington can help you reduce both internal and external risks.
The Impact of Falls in Canada
Falls affect not only individuals but also the healthcare system and communities across Canada.
(Source: Public Health Agency of Canada, Canadian Institute for Health Information)
How Physiotherapy Helps With Falls Prevention in Burlington
Physiotherapy has been proven to reduce falls risk in older adults. At Cogent Physical Rehabilitation Center in Burlington, our physiotherapists provide comprehensive fall-risk assessments and personalized treatment programs.
Your program may include:
Balance training – targeted exercises to improve stability and reaction to stumbles.
Strength training – building leg and core muscles to support safe movement.
Gait and mobility training – practicing safe walking techniques to improve confidence.
Dual-task training – walking or standing while performing other activities (e.g., talking, carrying groceries).
Pain management – exercises that reduce discomfort and help you stay active.
Education and fear management – strategies to reduce fear of falling and improve independence.
Community programs – group classes such as tai chi or balance-focused exercise programs.
Choosing a Physiotherapist in Burlington
When choosing a physiotherapist for falls prevention, consider:
Experience working with older adults and neurological conditions
Training in Senior Care (Geriatric) Physiotherapy or Neurologic Physiotherapy
Community-based approach with home safety guidance
At Cogent Rehab, our team specializes in Orthopaedic Physiotherapy, Neurological Rehabilitation, and Balance Training programs tailored to seniors in Burlington.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How can physiotherapy help with falls prevention?
Physiotherapy improves balance, strength, and mobility, reducing the risk of falls and restoring independence.
Q2: Do I need a doctor’s referral for falls prevention physiotherapy in Burlington?
No. You can directly book an assessment at Cogent Rehab.
Q3: What is included in a falls risk assessment?
Your physiotherapist will review your medical history, check your balance, strength, vision, gait, and may assess your home environment.
Q4: How soon will I see improvements?
Many patients notice improvements in balance and confidence within a few weeks of consistent therapy.
Q5: Are community programs available?
Yes. Burlington seniors can benefit from local community programs, such as tai chi and exercise groups, often guided by physiotherapists.
Take Action Today
Falls don’t have to be a normal part of aging. With the right support, you can maintain your independence and enjoy life safely.
Book a Falls Risk Assessment and learn about Physiotherapy for Falls Prevention at Cogent Physical Rehabilitation Center, Burlington Address: Suites 300-302, 3077 New Street, Burlington, ON
Phone: (905) 635-4422
Email: contactus@cogentrehab.com
👉 Call today to learn how physiotherapy for falls prevention in Burlington can help you or your loved one stay strong, steady, and confident.
Sources
Panel on Prevention of Falls in Older Persons, American Geriatrics Society and British Geriatrics Society. Summary of the Updated American Geriatrics Society/British Geriatrics Society clinical practice guideline for prevention of falls in older persons. J Am Geriatr Soc. 2011;59:148-157.
Montero-Odasso M et al. World guidelines for falls prevention and management for older adults: a global initiative. Age Ageing. 2022;51:afac205
Sherrington C et al. Evidence on physical activity and falls prevention for people aged 65+ years: systematic review to inform the WHO guidelines on physical activity and sedentary behaviour. Int J Behav Nut Phys Act. 2020;17:144.
Sherrington C, Fairhall NJ, Wallbank GK, et al. Exercise for preventing falls in older people living in the community. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2019;1:CD012424.
Guirguis-Blake JM, Michael YL, Perdue LA, et al. Interventions to prevent falls in older adults: updated evidence report and systematic review for the US Preventive Services Task Force. JAMA. 2018;319:1705–1716.
Yang et al, The impact of Otago exercise programme on the prevention of falls in older adult: A systematic review. 2022:10:953593
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