This week is Falls Prevention Week. Its aim is to raise awareness about falls risks and promote strategies to prevent falls among older adults. This year ,the emphasis is on reminding older adults that falls are not a normal part of aging and that most falls are preventable.
Falls are a leading cause of injury and death among adults aged 65 and older. Around one in four older adults experiences a fall each year, resulting in serious injuries such as hip fractures, head trauma, and loss of independence.
Awareness and preventive measures can significantly reduce these risks and improve quality of life. Key areas of focus include:
- Home safety improvements: Installing grab bars, improving lighting, securing loose rugs, and removing tripping hazards.
- Health management: Reviewing medications, monitoring vision, and addressing postural hypotension or other medical conditions that can increase fall risk
- Physical activity: Engaging in exercises that improve balance, strength, and mobility.
This is what our Community Falls Prevention workers are helping with every day.
They visit patients in their own homes and complete Multi-Factorial Falls Assessments. This includes the taking of lying and standing blood pressure to assess for any postural hypertension, arranging adaptations, equipment and prescribing of strength and balance exercises.
The team also deliver weekly strength and balance exercises classes. These are known as Finding Your Feet and run for a 13-week duration in the following locations:
- Todmorden Health Centre
- YMCA – Halifax
- Brighouse Health centre
Feedback from the last patient group to attend the course at the YMCA says:
“I feel I’m no longer alone and can relate to others. I was able to discuss things openly in an environment I felt safe and comfortable in. I also felt supported from the instructor and other support staff, who ensured I had the right exercise technique allowing me to continue the exercises at home”
“I have noticed a real improvement with my everyday functional activities which I previously found very challenging. I am now able to stand in the kitchen to prepare meals, as well as being able to reach for the item in the higher cupboard”
In April, Bob was referred to the Community Rehab Team for a falls assessment. He had fallen, resulting in a decline of his mobility.
A multi-factorial falls assessment was completed. Adaptations, mobility aids and equipment needs were identified and arranged.
Since then, Bob said: “I have been really well supported. Lisa's assessment resulted in aids and adaptations to my home which have greatly improved my quality of life. A handrail at the back door means I am able to leave my house safely and with confidence. A new step at my conservatory door means I can now access my garden safely to enjoy the sunny weather.
"The shower rail, raised toilet seat, zimmer frame and key safe, have all served to enable me to feel safe and comfortable at home, with most of these aids being delivered and installed within 24 to 48 hours. The best aid has been the lifting cushion. This means, when I do fall, my wife is able to assist me to get up without having to summon help from others.
"I cannot thank Lisa enough for her continued support and urge anyone who needs this type of support, to contact the service. It has been so beneficial to me”
If you have a patient who you believe would benefit from the Falls Prevention Service, please refer them by email to: gatewaytocare@calderdale.gov.uk.
