Recognizing National Safety Month and Advocating for Legislation to Help Prevent Falls
As we recognize National Safety Month in June, APTQI is giving special recognition to the physical and occupational therapists (PTs and OTs) who play an essential role in promoting safety and preventing injuries through tailored care and rehabilitation services.
Every year, millions of Americans experience preventable injuries that significantly impact their quality of life. From workplace injuries to home accidents, the role of physical and occupational therapy in mitigating these risks is more important than ever. PTs and OTs work diligently to develop personalized exercise programs that enhance strength, flexibility, balance, and overall mobility. By addressing patients’ unique needs, a care plan can be developed to help individuals recover from injuries, manage chronic pain, and prevent future accidents.
One of the critical areas for safety intervention is fall prevention. Falls are the leading cause of injury related deaths among older adults, despite being preventable. Through comprehensive falls risk assessments, PTs and OTs can identify potential hazards in patients’ homes and recommend practical modifications to enhance safety.
As we observe National Safety Month, APTQI urges Members of Congress to recognize the invaluable efforts PTs and OTs make every day to help patients avoid injury and support the Stopping Addiction and Falls for the Elderly (SAFE) Act (H.R. 7618). This vital piece of bipartisan legislation seeks to expand access to no-cost falls assessments by the falls experts – physical and occupational therapists – for older Americans who have fallen in the past year.
Supporting the SAFE Act is a crucial step towards a safer future for all Americans. Join APTQI in celebrating National Safety Month by raising awareness about the importance of physical and occupational therapy in injury prevention. Encourage your Member of Congress to support the SAFE Act today! Together, we can create a safer, healthier future for all.