Fall Prevention Brochure - Changi General Hospital

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1 w 2 Don’t fall for it While it is true that falling down is a common occurrence in life and the risk increases as we get older, falls are not a natural part of ageing and can be prevented. Why is fall prevention important? This is because: Get a QR code reader app from your smartphone’s app store (“search QR reader”) and scan this code using the app, or visit : www.cgh.com.sg/nofalls to read more about how to prevent falls. 1. Falls that happen in the older age group have a greater risk of causing injury. 2. The injuries sustained can also be long lasting and reduce the ability to walk and move, affecting confidence and independence. 3. A large number of falls in seniors can result in long hospital stays and expensive surgeries. Don’t let falls affect your life, read this booklet and say no to falls today!
3 4 Contents 4 Why we fall 5 Ageing and falls: Our changing bodies 7 Fall proof your environment 9 Fall proof your bedroom 11 Fall proof your kitchen 13 Fall proof your bathroom & toilet area 14 Walk safe: Proper footwear and walking aids 15 Useful fall prevention products 17 Getting up from a fall: What to do if you are alone 19 Getting up from a fall: How to help someone who has fallen 21 Getting help: Your action plan 22 When to call an ambulance Why we fall There are many reasons why falls happen. Some of the factors which can cause falls are listed below: 1. Physical factors – these are usually a result of changes due to ageing or some medical conditions 2. Medical conditions which can pre-dispose to falls • Muscle weakness or pain • Slow reaction time • Poor balance • Reduced vision • Poor memory or concentration • Dizziness • Parkinson’s disease • Stroke • Dementia • Arthritis • Rheumatism • Incontinence • Diabetes 3. Lifestyle reasons • Lack of exercise • Poor diet • Unsuitable footwear or attire 4. Environmental factors • Poor lighting and visibility • Cluttered spaces, narrow walkways, physical obstacles • Staircases, steps, steep inclines and curbs • Slippery surfaces such as wet floors To manage and reduce your risk of falling due to medical conditions or use of medications, you need to ensure that your medical conditions are optimally treated. Visit your doctor for regular review. Understanding these fall risk factors is the first step in preventing falls. In the next few pages, we will explain how some of these factors contribute to the risk of falling – and more importantly, how to do away with these hazards.
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Fall Prevention Brochure - Changi General Hospital

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