Experiences of Therapists Trying to Reduce Falls Risk for People With Intellectual Disability. Issue 4 (December 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pal, Jaya; Hale, Leigh; Mirfin‐Veitch, Brigit
• Is Part Of: Journal of policy and practice in intellectual disabilities. Volume 10:Issue 4(2013)
• Page Start: 314
• Page End: 320
• Publication Date: 2013-12
• Subjects: Mental retardation -- Periodicals; People with mental disabilities -- Services for -- Periodicals; Developmental disabilities -- Periodicals; Learning disabilities -- Periodicals; 362.205
• DOI: 10.1111/jppi.12058
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1741-1122

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main"> <title>Abstract</title> <p>Although it is well established that falling and fall‐related injuries are a problem for many people with intellectual disability (ID), there is an absence of research reporting on the effectiveness of fall prevention strategies to reduce fall risk in this population group. As a starting point to guide the development of research into possible fall prevention strategies for people with ID, the authors interviewed a purposive sample of physiotherapists and occupational therapists currently working for one service organization in New Zealand. To determine the perceptions, experiences, and opinions of therapists in trying to prevent and reduce fall risk for people with ID, the authors conducted a series of semistructured interviews using an open‐ended questioning technique. Data were analyzed using a general inductive approach. Five categories emerged from the interviews: the therapist's roles, successful and unsuccessful strategies, justification of strategies, barriers, and future strategies. Four main fall prevention strategies were identified that therapists thought to be most useful, including environmental modifications, participation in physical activity and exercise, prescription of assistive mobility devices, and education on safe mobility. It was concluded that the experiences and insights of the therapists could provide direction for future research as well as for therapists currently working in the field.</p> </abstract>