We often worry about the residents we care for falling but falls don't "just happen," and people don't fall because they get older. Often, more than one underlying cause or risk factor is involved in a fall and these are often part of just moving about and there are everyday things that we need to think about when our residents are moving about.
Before a resident gets up to move think about:-
Older eyes:-
Can take longer to adjust to changing light.
May have restrictions in visual field – objects/hazards may not be seen.
May have problems with judging distances.
Can have problems with balance
Are the persons glasses:
Clean?
Current?
Correct?
Make sure there is a good level of lighting available.
Older ears:-
May have a build up a wax
Can affect balance
Does the person have a hearing aid?
Are there working batteries?
Are all the components present?
Is it clean?
Use visual cues and gestures to aid communication. Speak to the person better sides, at their level and facing them.
Older Feet:-
Are more prone to corns, bunions, blisters and infections
The skin is thinner and less elastic and circulation reduced
With reduced balance and mobility it can be harder to reach down to the feet
Check toenails are not too long and feet have no signs of infection.
Feet are cleaned, dried and moisturised.
Residents are wearing suitable socks and footwear.
Regular review by podiatry and refer to GP/DN if concerned.
Additional care is needed if resident is diabetic, has rheumatoid arthritis or on warfarin.
Exercise to improve circulation.
Don’t sit cross legged and don’t walk barefoot.
Ensure walking aids are checked regularly for safety (monthly basis)
Is it the right height?
Is the resident within the safe weight limit for the walking aid they are using?
Do they look safe with it?
Is the walking aid appropriate?
Is the resident used to walking with it?
Have they been assessed?
Is it being used correctly?
Residents should NOT share walking aids because:-
There is a risk of passing on infections
Think about the:
Different rooms
Communal areas
Stairs
Entries and exits
Outside spaces
Lighting
Equipment
What about:
Clutter
Position of furniture
Heights of furniture
Floor surfaces
Walking aids
Visitors
Key questions:
What can’t be changed?
What can be changed?
What can be modified?
Would signage help?
Report all hazards that need repairing; minimise the risks; promote independence.
Ensure risks assessments are completed/updated if a person:
Is at risk of fall
At the first fall
After each fall
Is diagnosed with a new medical condition e.g. Parkinson’s Disease, Dementia
Community Falls Risk Assessment and Plan
For support with falls prevention exercise, physical activity and reducing sedentary behaviour contact
'STRICTLY NO FALLING'
Southern Derbyshire (excluding Derby City)
Emma Yates
M: 07851 731772
E: emma.yates@ageukdd.org.uk
Northern Derbyshire
Sue Hannan
M: 07745 273333
E: sue.hannan@ageukdd.org.uk
For more information see our pages on the Age UK Derby & Derbyshire Website click here
Vision Recommendations:
Regular eye tests – ideally once a year.
Speak to Derbyshire Sight Support.
01332 292262
Hearing should be checked annually – seek referral to audiology.
Guide to checks on 3 and 4 wheeled walkers
Guide to checks on zimmer frames
Safety Cross
If concerned, please refer to local community physiotherapist for a walking aid assessment
Swadlincote SPA 01283 818080
Derby City SPA 01332 888100
Erewash SPA 0115 8554160
Amber Valley/South Dales SPA 01773 525090