DEAR EDITOR:

Here at First Settlement Physical Therapy, we are dedicated to not only treating but also preventing falls among our older population. As the leading cause of injury and injury-related deaths in adults aged 65 and older, these accidents are extremely expensive, painful, and rob seniors of their independence.

As America’s older population continues to grow, the risk of falls only increases –with more than 28% of older Ohioans already struggling with these harmful events. Thankfully, some lawmakers in Washington, D.C., are taking action to help seniors access the care they need to prevent these accidents. Introduced earlier this year, the bipartisan Stopping Addiction and Falls for the Elderly (SAFE) Act (H.R. 1171) would ensure Medicare beneficiaries can access no-cost falls risk assessments from falls experts–physical and occupational therapists–to prevent accidents, injuries, and hospitalizations.

Earlier this month, my colleagues and I had the pleasure of welcoming staff from the office of Congressman Michael Rulli to our clinic to discuss the impact physical therapists have in our community. First Settlement Physical Therapy is grateful for Rep. Rulli’s support for the physical therapy profession and urges him to co-sponsor and pass the SAFE Act so Ohio’s older population can access preventative care to remain steady on their feet.

SIMON HARGUS

PT, DPT, OCS, MBA

Marietta