Falls are a major concern for individuals with disabilities, particularly those who are elderly or have physical impairments. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations among older Australians, and 30% of people aged 65 years and older experience a fall each year.
For individuals who have a disability, the risk of falls can be even greater. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides funding for individuals with disabilities to access physiotherapy services to help prevent falls and improve overall health and wellbeing. In this article, we will explore the benefits of NDIS-funded physiotherapy services for fall prevention.
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What is the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a government-funded program that provides funding for individuals with disabilities to access the support and services they need to live a more independent and fulfilling life. The NDIS is designed to provide funding for reasonable and necessary supports that will help individuals achieve their goals, improve their quality of life, and increase their independence.
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What is Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is a form of healthcare that focuses on the prevention, treatment, and management of physical impairments, disabilities, and pain. Physiotherapists work with individuals to help them restore movement and function to their bodies, reduce pain and discomfort, and improve their overall quality of life.
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How can NDIS-funded physiotherapy services help prevent falls?
Physiotherapy can help individuals with disabilities prevent falls by improving their strength, balance, and mobility. A physiotherapist can work with individuals to develop an exercise program that is tailored to their specific needs and goals, which can help improve their overall physical function and reduce the risk of falls.
Additionally, physiotherapists can provide education and training to individuals and their carers on how to prevent falls and reduce the risk of injury. This can include advice on safe mobility techniques, the use of mobility aids, and environmental modifications to reduce the risk of falls.
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Who is eligible for NDIS-funded physiotherapy services?
Individuals who are eligible for the NDIS and have an identified need for physiotherapy services can receive funding for these services through their NDIS plan. To be eligible for the NDIS, individuals must have a permanent and significant disability that affects their ability to perform daily activities.
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What types of physiotherapy services are covered by the NDIS?
The NDIS can fund a range of physiotherapy services, including assessment, treatment, and ongoing support. This can include one-on-one consultations with a physiotherapist, group exercise classes, and assistive technology to help individuals improve their physical function and reduce the risk of falls.
Conclusion
Falls are a major concern for individuals with disabilities, but with the help of NDIS-funded physiotherapy services, the risk of falls can be greatly reduced. By improving strength, balance, and mobility, and providing education and training on fall prevention, individuals with disabilities can live a more independent and fulfilling life.
FAQs:
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What is the most common cause of falls among older Australians? The most common cause of falls among older Australians is slips, trips, and falls on the same level.
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Can physiotherapy help with other physical impairments besides fall prevention? Yes, physiotherapy can help with a range of physical impairments, including pain management, post-operative rehabilitation, and sports injuries.
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How often should I see a physio