Wow, Deanna, great question, I look forward to some wisdom from folks on the list.
For myself, I always refer to PT, we (O&Ms) are not prepared to address those problems. ?I have once or twice suspended my training till I¡¯m satisfied that the balance issue is being addressed, as I¡¯m not comfortable being responsible for their safety if they have problems with falling, but that¡¯s rare, and I will resume before the balance issue is completely resolved if I feel confident I can take precautions recommended by the PT.
¡ª Dona
¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª
Dona Sauerburger, COMS
Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist for the blind
www.sauerburger.org
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On Aug 14, 2024, at 10:42 AM, ALLEN Deana * OCB <deana.allen@...> wrote:
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Greetings,
My colleagues and I are seeking information on best practices. We work with adults in the vocational rehabilitation department of a state agency, most of the work is center based
or within the city.? The O&M staff is curious how O&Ms from similar backgrounds address balance concerns. Specifically, we would like to know how others assess and serve individuals who have a history of falls that cannot be accounted for by loss of vision
alone. Our agency does not require medical records from our clients so we cannot glean any information from that source. Do you seek assessment from physical or occupational therapists? Which professional formal balance assessment is most appropriate for orientation
and mobility?
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I know liability is a state-by-state issue, but what is your understanding of what can occur if an individual is injured after falling when they present with a fall history??
Any information or direction would be greatly appreciated by the O&M staff.? We want to serve our clients as safely and effectively as possible by addressing any balance concerns that might impact their training.
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Deana Allen
COMS
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