Falling is a serious health concern as the population ages. Most advice about preventing falls focuses on maintaining lower limb strength and avoiding environments that increase the chance of falling. But balance is not simply a result of strong limbs and falls still happen when we are safe in our homes.
In this presentation, balance will be explored as a multifactorial process that depends on:
- Strength
- Reception of sensory information
- Perception
- Attention
We'll examine the role of our sensory system and how our ability to predict and attend to the potential for a fall contributes to balance. Our speaker will also explain how impairments in these systems — due to aging and illness — can increase the risk of falling.
Finally, the presentation will offer practical strategies to improve balance by enhancing our ability to perceive relevant sensory signals, thereby decreasing the probability of a fall.
This program offers a fresh, science-based look at what really keeps us steady on our feet. You’ll walk away with practical insights and strategies to improve balance and reduce fall risk at any age.
"Balance is learned......it's not just physical."
About Dr. Emily Keshner
Dr. Emily A. Keshner is Professor Emerita in the Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at Temple University. Over the course of her career, she has been a physical education teacher, a Physical Therapist, and a neuroscientist. Most recently, she served as Chair of the Department of Physical Therapy and Director of Research Strategy in the College of Health Professions and Social Work at Temple University.
Her research laboratory was the first in the US to use virtual reality technology to study the impact of visual perception on posture and balance. Dr. Keshner was a founding member of the International Society of Virtual Rehabilitation (ISVR) and served as its first president from 2009-2012. She also served on the board and as president of the International Society of Posture and Gait Research (ISPGR) and is now an honorary member. Currently, Dr. Keshner is the Chief Research Officer of GraceFall Inc., a start-up company focusing on how to prevent injury from falls.
Emily is also a proud member of Women's Connection!