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Taking steps to reduce your risk of falls - Bundarra
31 March 2009
Hunter New England Health is helping raise awareness of April Falls Day by encouraging older community members to consider ways of reducing their risk of falls.
An initiative of NSW Health’s Clinical Excellence Commission, April Falls Day (April 1) aims to highlight the importance of preventing falls in hospitals, residential aged care facilities, and in homes.
Falls are a major cause of injury for older people. They are the leading cause of injury-related hospital admissions in people aged 65 years and over.
Bundarra Community Health nurse Tania Mills said contrary to popular belief, falls are not inevitable and many older people can be prevented from falling.
“Some risk factors for falls are relatively easy to change and, where falls occur, the severity of injuries can be reduced,” Ms Mills said.
There are some simple steps that you can take to reduce your risk of falling:
• 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 handrails for stairs and in the bathroom and toilet if you feel you are at risk in these areas.
• Non-slip mats are also very valuable in shower and bathroom wet areas.
• Look at your footwear. Make sure it is comfortable, well fitting and 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 and consult your GP if you are feeling dizzy - it may be your medications.
“We want to encourage older people to develop a positive risk management plan. People may limit their physical activities because they are fearful of falls, yet physical activity will improve balance and muscle tone,” Ms Mills said.
“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 local doctor, Aged Care Assessment Team, occupational therapist, physiotherapist, community nurse, pharmacist, dietitian, podiatrist, optometrist and Community Health Centre can provide you with assessment, referral and information on how to reduce you risk of having a fall.”
For more information on preventing falls, visit the Bundarra Community Health stall at the Bundarra Goat Races on Saturday 18 April.
(HNE-1807)
Contact: Carisa Green
Phone: (02) 6767 7135 or 0428 106 183
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