Open house focuses on minimizing fall risk

Preventing falls is a major part of ensuring healthy aging.

Falls are responsible for injuries that can threaten independent living and even result in death. This is why Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center’s Outpatient Rehabilitation Center is offering free fall risk assessments from 9 a.m. to noon Nov. 14, during an open house at its new location at 14418 W. Meeker Blvd., Suite 301, Building B, Sun City West.

Formerly located inside the nonprofit hospital, outpatient rehabilitation services is now housed on the third floor in the Webb Medical Plaza across Granite Valley Drive just north of the hospital.

“We’re excited to show off our new facility with its wonderful open view while maintaining the same dedicated team of therapists,” said Connie Shaffer, senior clinical manager of Outpatient Rehabilitation Services. “Rehabilitation is such an important part of getting well.”

Among its many services, the facility offers treatment for individuals recovering from physical or cognitive injuries or illnesses, including, back, neck and hand injuries, cognitive dysfunction, vertigo, gait deviations, lymphedema, balance disorders, orthopedic injuries, joint replacement, pain, speech and swallow disorders and incontinence.

The Banner Del E. Webb Outpatient Rehabilitation Center’s new location features a huge therapy room flooded with natural light and views of the mountains, a number of private therapy rooms and offices. The staff will be on hand to give a tour of the facility as well as perform free fall assessments.

“Along with showing off our new home, we decided that we would offer free fall assessments to attendees. Preventing injuries from falling is extremely important and knowing if a person has a balance, endurance or strength issue,  which can be helped through therapy, can keep people mobile and fall free,” Shaffer said.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, reducing fall risks will improve a person’s quality of life. Every year, according to the agency, one in three adults age 65 or older fall. But it’s not simply the elderly who need to be aware of fall risks. Certain conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, circulation problems, thyroid and nervous disorders can make someone more susceptible to falling.

Refreshments will be served and every attendee will receive a small gift. Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP by calling 602-230-CARE (2273).