April Falls Day highlights serious health issue

Gunnedah Local Health Advisory Committee (LHAC) is helping raise awareness of April Falls Day by encouraging older community members to consider ways of remaining physically active to reduce the risk of a fall.

An initiative of NSW Health’s Clinical Excellence Commission, April Falls Day (April 1), aims to highlight the importance of preventing falls in the community.
Falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospital admissions in people aged 65 years and over. After being admitted to hospital, people are often unable to return to their own home, and therefore may need to live in residential aged care.

Gunnedah LHAC Chairperson, Mrs Colleen Fuller said contrary to popular belief, falling over as you get older is not inevitable.

“With the right prevention, older people can continue to live independently at home, it is very important you stay active and participate in exercise that challenges your balance and makes your legs stronger,” Mrs Fuller said.

“The reason for doing these exercises is to make everyday tasks easier to do - whether it be carrying a two litre container of milk or being able to get out of a chair.

“There are some simple steps that can be taken to protect yourself from the risk of having a fall and an injury,” Mrs Fuller said.

Keeping active and living independent by:

• Be active everyday
• Keep your house free from clutter, mats and cords that may cause tripping.
• Ensure that you have adequate lighting in all areas.
• Lower the clothes line so you are not hanging washing above your head.
• Install grab rails for stairs and in the bathroom and toilet.
• Non-slip mats are also very valuable in wet shower and bathroom areas.
• Look at your footwear. Make sure it is well fitting and is low heeled with a non-slip sole.
• Use walking aids if you require them.
• Have regular eyechecks and wear your distance glasses for walking.
• Sit on the edge of the bed before you get up to get your balance. Consult your GP if you are feeling dizzy – it may be caused by your medications.

“If you are unsure of the changes you may need to make to your home - or if you have already had a fall - there are a number of health professionals who are available to help you.

“Your pharmacist, local GP or community nurse can provide you with information on what you can do to keep active and healthy and living for as long as possible in your own home.”

Contact: Emma Gibbs

Phone: (02) 6767 7137