14 April 2019

    We cannot prevent falls but there are ways to detect them and call for help when they happen. It may also be possible to reduce the number of falls by understanding why they are happening.

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    We can detect falls in several ways: using wearable fall detectors; measuring how long people are out of bed at night or out of their chair in the day; and by measuring lack of movement when we’d normally expect activity. Modern digital technologies can be more sophisticated using behavioural patterns and more complex logic to analyse if something unusual is happening. We can also provide alarm buttons both wearable and mounted where falls occur, which the faller can press if they are conscious, compos mentis and willing.

    None of these solutions are 100% reliable. Both false alarms and undetected falls occur and for a variety of reasons people don’t always call for help when they need it. Each case is different and art is in finding the best solution for the individual.

    Once a fall has been detected we need to get help. This can be by alerting a family member or a friend, or by using a specialist service with 24 hour monitoring.

    Falls happen for many reasons, for example poor eyesight, trip hazards in the home or not taking medication. There may be simple changes we can make like moving rugs or furniture. Home adaptations such as handrails and brighter lighting could help and care technology can help with medication and other issues.

    There are many factors to consider when looking at falls and fall detection. We’d recommend looking at an individual’s whole situation and finding solutions which are expandable and compatible, rather than just looking at falls in isolation. There are many different solutions on the market and care needs to be taken to choose ones which will meet your needs.

    A home assessment is usually best but you could start with a telephone consultation to

    find out more and explore potential solutions.

    We make it easier to provide good care

    Call us on 07745-606276