Falls are a serious cause of patient harm

30 March 2017

April falls!..... falls prevention

Falls are a serious cause of patient harm

In Wairarapa, almost 250 people over 50 years old are hospitalised each year after suffering a fall. It has been estimated that one third of people aged over 65, and half of people over 80 years, suffer at least one fall per year.

You can avoid falls by:

· Improving your balance and strength with exercise that is right for you

· Asking your doctor, nurse or pharmacist for a review of your medicines

· Having annual eye check ups and updating your glasses

· Keeping a careful eye out for frosty paths and steps during the winter season

· Wearing sensible, non-slip footwear

Make a safer home for yourself:

· Identify any potential trip hazards throughout your home – check cords, carpets, and rugs

· Clear obstacles from hallways

· Make sure furniture is easier to get into and out of

· Place grip rails in bathrooms and stairways

· Check that lighting is adequate

· Keep items used regularly within easy reach

Ask, assess, act!
Is the older person in your care, or who you care about, at risk of falling?
Ask how they are doing, how mobile are they, how their coordination is holding up.

Assess their physical strength and activity, vision and cognition, home safety and medicines.
Act by referring to a specialist or helping safeguard their home and lifestyle.

ACC can provide more information on keeping you and your home safe. Call 0800 101 996 or visit www.acc.co.nz

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