FALLS AND ACCIDENT PREVENTION ASSESSMENT  (FaAPA)

Are you interested in a free Falls and Accident Prevention Assessment (FaAPA) which will involve inside and outside your home? If so please read on:

Did you know?

■ One in three people aged 65 and over report falling at least once a year

■ About 10 per cent of falls result in serious injury (e.g. fractures)

■ Falls are a leading cause of injury-related hospital admissions and deaths for older people

■ Falls can also lead to the need for residential care

Environmental hazards are often involved in falls by older people living independently at home. Many falls (up to 60 percent) happen at the home. Environmental hazards include:

■ Step and stair hazards

■ Clutter and other obstructions

■ Poor lighting

■ Uneven or slippery pathways

■ Tripping hazards (e.g. cords, rugs)

■ Using furniture for climbing, or support while walking

■ Wet or slippery floors

■ Items kept in places too high / too low or out of reach

■ Inappropriate (wrong type or height) or poorly maintained walking aids

■ Other inappropriate or poorly maintained aids and equipment (e.g. rails, commodes)

■ Items of clothing that are too long and loose

■ Inappropriate (unsafe) footwear

■ Inappropriate chair or bed height (too low or too high)

■ Undertaking activities that is associated with a high risk of falling

Environmental hazards are also present away from the home, including:

■ Uneven, broken footpaths or loose pavers

■ Cracks and potholes on the road

■ Leaves on footpaths

■ Overhanging branches, shrubs and trees obstructing footpaths

Primarily this assessment is for HACC clients only who wish to continue living at home in a safe environment.

The assessment will only make recommendations about possible home changes that might assist you and advice on how to access appropriate support services, if needed.

To organise to assessment please call our Referral Team on (02) 6287 3777