Every September, communities and healthcare facilities observe National Falls Prevention Awareness Month . While fall risks affect all older adults, the impact within long-term care communities is especially critical. A key spotlight during this time is Balance Awareness Week (September 13–19) , led by the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA)....
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Discussion
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Audiologists working in skilled nursing and long-term care settings should use Fall Prevention Month in September as a structured opportunity to review their balance assessment protocols and fall-risk screening workflows for residents — this is a practice-reinforcement reminder rather than a change in standard of care.
As audiologists expand into vestibular and balance services in residential care settings, proactive fall-risk programming positions the profession as an essential member of the interdisciplinary care team.
- 01Fall Prevention Month in September is a timely hook for audiologists to promote balance and fall-risk services in nursing homes and long-term care facilities.
- 02Audiologists in skilled nursing facilities are well-placed to conduct balance assessments (tests of how well someone can stay steady) as part of fall-risk management teams.
- 03The guide is produced by The Audiology Project, a professional organization advocating for expanded audiology roles in medical settings.
- 04Content is practice-guidance oriented, not based on new clinical research.
- 05Integrating audiology into fall-prevention programs may increase referrals and demonstrate the value of audiology services in residential care.
Audiologists can play a meaningful role in fall-risk management in skilled nursing and long-term care settings.
opinionpartially supported