REHAB SERVICES Can changes in cognition affect your alance and put you at risk of falls? A: Yes, it can for several reasons One significant contributing factor to increased Goecke, PI falls is mismanagement of medications. Changes in cognition may cause someone to set up their pill tray incorrectly and/or take their medications at the wrong times or not at all. Visual perceptual changes may occur. Example: You may see a dark colored tile next to light colored tile on the floor. The affected person may perceive a hole in the floor. Depth perception may also be impaired. A fall could occur trying to avoid these perceived obstacles. A person's ability to process information quickly enough to recognize unsafe situations or react to them may be affected. Some possible signs of cognitive changes may be increased stubbornness, childlike behavior or increased agitation. The doctor may do a cognitive screen such as the mini mental, SLUMS or MOCHA or refer you to occupational therapy or speech therapy for further testing. A physical therapy (PT) referral may be made to address the falls. During the PT evaluation if cognitive concerns are observed, the PT may complete a cognitive screen or request a referral for further testing. Brenda Sanford Bemidji Rehab Services 1300 Anne Street NW Bemidji, MN 56601 (218) 333-5898 www.bemidji.sanfordhealth.org Bemidji