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Falls Prevention, Broken Hips and Fall Safety, |
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| Falls Prevention, Broken Hips, Fall Safety, |
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Reduce Slips, Trips and Broken Hips - Fall Safety in Nursing Homes and Hostels and other Residential Aged Care Facilities with falls prevention strategies |
Information given to older people during falls prevention programmes and during rehabilitation of those who have fallen is likely to be better understood and acted upon when supported by written materials. Professionals involved with the preparation of informative materials should ensure that the written materials and the key messages are standardised throughout the institution to prevent costly duplication and potential confusion.
Following are some elements which may be considered in falls prevention programmes. These basic suggestions are presented as a guide only to enhance the implementation of best practice principles and should not replace the clinicians judgement in each individual case.
Assesment. Elderly nursing home residents, especially those who have previously had a fall, should be assessed to confirm all individual risks. Hip protection. Hip protectors should be offered to all residents who are at risk of falling. Medication. Reviews should be carried out as part of falls risk assessment. Education. Falls risk minimisation training should be provided for all staff in residential aged care facilities. Exercise. Programmes that improve strength, balance and reaction times may be implemented by trained personnel. |
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Reduce Slips, Trips and Broken Hips - Fall Safety in the Home |
Most falls occur at home, so it is important older people ensure the likelihood of a slip, trip or fractured hip in their home is reduced. As we get older the risk of a fall increases for many reasons such as impaired eyesight and mobility, poor balance, effects of medications (especially if several types are being taken), or simply due to an unsafe home environment.
Because the effects of falls in older people can be devastating, falls prevention strategies are extremely important - however, all falls simply cannot be prevented and seniors continue to fall. It is very important therefore to give very serious consideration to the wearing of hip protectors to protect the vulnerable hips and to protect against devastating hip fractures.
The following are some simple things that can be done to help prevent falls in the home:
Remove loose mats or ensure they are firmly secured and have non-slip underlays. Always wipe up spills as soon as they occur. Place nightlights in dark passageways or stairs to provide light at night. Lay non-slip flooring in the bathroom. Paint on or stick non-slip strips in the shower and bath. Arrange your kitchen so the most frequently used items are easy to reach. Make sure all outside steps are highly visible by painting the front edge of the step a contrasting colour or by adhering non-skid treads. In the lounge room, high chairs and chairs with solid armrests are easier to get in and out of. Do not place fans and heaters in walkways or in the middle of the room. Have a light within reach of your bed. Consider a touch lamp or night lamp, and keep a torch next to your bed at night. Wear shoes and slippers that have non-slip soles, patterned tread, and rounded broad heels. Have regular eye checks - poor eyesight can cause you to trip or slip and fall. See your doctor if you are experiencing dizziness or fainting. Ask your doctor about the possible side effects of any medication that you are taking. Exercising regularly to help to maintain the strength of your muscles and bones. Discuss your health concerns with your doctor, a nurse or a health visitor. Remember -not all falls can be prevented and despite all efforts our seniors continue to fall. If you have had a fall recently, or are at risk of falling, protecting the vulnerable hips with hip protectors should be given very serious consideration along with other falls prevention strategies |
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