Fear of falling : psychological management after stroke

Background: Falls are common after stroke, occurring in up to 39% of survivors. Fear of falling ‘a lasting concern about falling that leads to an individual avoiding activities’ can arise in up to 88% and while associated with the experience of falls, can occur independently of a falls history. Fear of falling predicts poorer physical function and an increases the risk of falls. Research supports the usefulness of cognitive behavioural strategies to manage fear of falling after stroke, as an adjunct to physical therapy. Content: A cognitive behavioural approach, specifically designed to be accessible to non-psychological therapists will be outlined. The workshop will include video and the opportunity to role play a patient rehabilitation practitioner interaction. Outcomes: Participants will be expected to have an improved understanding of fear of falling after stroke and be able to apply this to their professional practice, to the benefit of their patients