Falls - Putting Our Best Foot Forward

In the United Kingdom, approximately half a million people reside in care homes. Older individuals in care homes face a higher risk of falling compared to those living independently. Falls can significantly affect an individual’s well-being, mobility, and confidence in walking. However, falling is not an inevitable consequence of ageing. Through thorough risk assessments and careful care planning, the risk of falls can be reduced and prevented.

Here are three ways Healthcare Ireland services support residents in reducing their risk of falls within our settings:

1.     Risk Assessment and Care Planning

Our Registered Nurses and Senior Care Assistants conduct personalised risk assessments and develop care plans for each resident based on their mobility and fall risk. Each assessment and plan is tailored to the resident's specific needs, taking into account their medical history and lifestyle preferences. Our care planning process is guided by a comprehensive understanding of each individual's circumstances. Our staff adhere to regulatory standards and employ evidence-based practices in their care delivery.

2.     Physical and Social Activity

At Healthcare Ireland, providing meaningful physical and social activities is integral to our resident-centred care approach. In 2023, we introduced Oomph! Wellness throughout our facilities, offering a variety of activities tailored to the needs of our residents, including specially designed exercise programmes. Oomph! features a range of chair-based exercises, with the 70s Seated Dance Routine being particularly popular among our residents. Research shows that regular exercise among older individuals can decrease the risk of falls and enhance overall well-being.

During the summer months, many of our residents enjoy outdoor walks and gardening activities, which are encouraged and supported by our staff to promote physical activity.

3.     Partnership with Health and Social Care Trusts Falls Prevention Services

Our Registered Nurses and Senior Care Assistants work in partnership with residents, their families, and key members of the multi-disciplinary team to prevent and manage falls. Several Health and Social Care Trusts have a Falls Prevention Service to which our residents can be referred. This service provides advanced risk assessments, falls prevention advice, and onward referrals to other services and professionals if required. The Falls Prevention Service also offers residents a Strength & Balance Programme Exercise Booklet, detailing exercises that improve strength and balance.