VGM & ASSOCIATESHealthcare MSO
Full Menu Search

Fall Prevention Awareness Day: Safeguarding Independence for CRT Users

Published in Complex Rehab on September 18, 2025

Fall Prevention Awareness Day

Fall Prevention Awareness Day (observed Monday, Sept. 22, 2025) is an important occasion for CRT providers, highlighting the critical role they play in ensuring the independence and safety of complex rehab technology (CRT) users. Providers must be aware of the unique challenges faced by individuals who rely on mobility aids, as falls can lead to serious consequences and reduced quality of life for these users. This makes fall risk management a critical component of care for CRT users. 

In this article, we will explore essential fall prevention techniques and strategies that CRT providers can adopt to better serve their clients, fostering a safer environment and ultimately promoting independence. 

The Serious Consequences of Falls for CRT Users 

Falls can result in significant physical and emotional challenges for CRT users. For CRT providers, understanding these repercussions is crucial in developing effective interventions. A fall can lead to hospitalization, increased healthcare costs, and emotional distress that may discourage CRT users from engaging in social activities. 

The Role of CRT Providers in Fall Prevention 

CRT providers have a unique position to influence fall prevention outcomes. We all know that CRT plays a pivotal role in the lives of many individuals with disabilities. From power wheelchairs to custom adaptive seating, CRT empowers people with mobility impairments to navigate the world around them with greater ease. However, it also underscores the importance of fall prevention, as any accident or mishap could have severe consequences.  

The following fall prevention tips and strategies can be instrumental in guiding CRT users towards safe mobility: 

Tailored Assessments 

One of the key advantages of CRT is its tailor-made nature. Each piece of equipment is designed to meet the unique needs and specifications of the user. This ensures a precise fit, making mobility safer and more comfortable. However, this also means that any misalignment or misuse could potentially lead to accidents.  

  1. Individual Evaluations: Conduct thorough assessments of each client’s mobility needs and environmental risks to develop personalized fall prevention strategies. This ensures that the right equipment is selected and that it addresses their specific limitations. 
  2. Customized Equipment Solutions: Offer tailored mobility solutions that consider the user's physical conditions. Properly fitted equipment greatly reduces the risk of falls caused by misalignment or misuse. 

Training and Education 

Proper education and training are paramount in preventing falls among CRT users. 

  1. Comprehensive Training Programs: Provide CRT users and their caregivers with robust training on the use of mobility devices, including safety measures for transferring and navigating their environments. 
  2. Awareness of Environmental Hazards: Educate clients about common hazards that can lead to falls and provide solutions to mitigate these risks in different settings—at home or in public. 

Collaboration with Healthcare Professionals 

  1. Interdisciplinary Approach: Work closely with healthcare professionals, such as assistive technology professionals (ATPs), physical therapists (PTs), and occupational therapists (OTs), to create a comprehensive fall prevention strategy. This collaborative approach can ensure a multifaceted understanding of each individual's needs. 
  2. Regular Reassessments: Regular maintenance and check-ups of CRT equipment are essential to catch any potential issues before they escalate. This includes inspecting for wear and tear, checking for loose components, and ensuring that all functions are operating smoothly. A well-maintained CRT device is less likely to malfunction and cause a fall.  

Home Modifications for Safety 

Creating a safe living environment is crucial for CRT users. 

  1. Guidance on Environmental Modifications: Offer recommendations for home modifications to enhance safety. This can include adjustments such as installing grab bars or ramps, ensuring non-slip surfaces, and improving lighting.  
  2. Safety Audits: Encourage CRT providers to conduct safety audits for clients’ homes to proactively identify and address potential fall risks. 

Learn about VGM Live at Home, VGM’s home modifications division, for more information about home modifications and accessibility. 

Emphasizing the Use of Technology 

  1. Adopt Technological Solutions: Educate clients about various smart home devices and wearable technology that can assist in fall prevention. These innovations can provide alerts and increase overall safety. 
  2. Mobile Apps for Monitoring: Recommend mobile applications that offer exercise programs aimed at improving strength and balance, thus reducing fall risks for users. 

Resources at Your Fingertips 

To enhance their fall prevention efforts, CRT providers can tap into U.S. Rehab's resources, such as our education programs and network of vendor partners, to be better equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to support CRT users effectively. 

  1. Vendor Partnerships: U.S. Rehab partners with leading vendors and manufacturers who offer the latest CRT equipment and technology solutions that can significantly enhance safety and well-being for CRT users. Our network also includes experts in home modifications who can provide recommendations on creating safer living environments for CRT users. Discover U.S. Rehab's vendor partners here. 
  2. Training and Educational Resources: U.S. Rehab offers a variety of educational programs and specialized training for CRT staff to provide the best, most efficient service possible to CRT users. Discover U.S. Rehab's education and training programs here. 

By utilizing the educational programs and resources provided by U.S. Rehab and collaborating with vendor partners, CRT providers can further enrich their fall prevention strategies, ensuring they are well-equipped to support the diverse needs of CRT users. 

Conclusion 

As we observe Fall Prevention Awareness Day, CRT providers must recognize their vital role in safeguarding the independence of CRT users. By implementing tailored assessments, training programs, and collaborating with healthcare professionals, CRT providers can significantly reduce the risk of falls. Educating clients about home modifications and technological tools further reinforces safety measures. 

Together, we can create a safer environment for CRT users, fostering their independence and helping them lead fulfilling lives. Let’s commit to proactive fall prevention strategies in our practices today. 

Original article published September 2023 and updated September 2025. 

TAGS

  1. complex rehab

Get Connected

Stay up-to-date on the latest resources and news provided by VGM & Associates.

Sign Up for Email

From Our Experts

CRT Groups Unite for Congressional Fly-In thumbnail CRT Groups Unite for Congressional Fly-In NCART, NRRTS and U.S. Rehab are collaborating in a more official way on this year's congressional fly-in on Sept. 16-17 in a move that will bring together complex rehab technology (CRT) professionals from different parts of the industry. Streamlining Processes and Enhancing Profitability in the Repair Department thumbnail Streamlining Processes and Enhancing Profitability in the Repair Department In the complex rehab technology industry, efficient and profitable repair departments are crucial for maintaining customer satisfaction and business growth. Customization, Communication, and Clinical Strength: The Indie Edge in Complex Rehab thumbnail Customization, Communication, and Clinical Strength: The Indie Edge in Complex Rehab Independent complex rehab providers say they are differentiating themselves with product customization and referral and patient engagement. The Rising Cost of Doing Business in the Mobility and Complex Rehab Technology Industry thumbnail The Rising Cost of Doing Business in the Mobility and Complex Rehab Technology Industry This article delves into concerns of rising costs in the mobility and complex rehab technology (CRT) industry and explores potential strategies to mitigate their impact. Staffing Ratios and Compensation Insights for U.S. Rehab Members and CRT Dealers thumbnail Staffing Ratios and Compensation Insights for U.S. Rehab Members and CRT Dealers This report provides insights into team structures and pay for key roles like ATPs, service technicians, and billing personnel. Balancing Costs and Growth: Williams Bros.' Strategies for Success thumbnail Balancing Costs and Growth: Williams Bros.' Strategies for Success Williams Bros. has been adept at managing the complexities of business expenses, improving margins, and mitigating lost opportunities. 2025 Growth Strategies in the Complex Rehab Technology Industry thumbnail 2025 Growth Strategies in the Complex Rehab Technology Industry Forward-thinking businesses are adopting strategic approaches to fuel growth and expand impact. Here are some key strategies CRT dealers are leveraging in 2025. ATP Gateway Allows Repair Techs to Explore New Career thumbnail ATP Gateway Allows Repair Techs to Explore New Career U.S. Rehab added a new ATP Gateway program to the back end of its recent live tech training events in an effort to increase the funnel of ATPs entering the market by leveraging the repair tech workforce.

Be Part of Something Bigger

Become a Member