Also in June:
16 June 2009
NHSG/97/09
To mark National Falls Awareness Day, physiotherapists from NHS Grampian are hosting an information event at the Bon Accord Shopping Centre in Aberdeen on Tuesday, 23rd June, between 10am and 4pm.
The physiotherapists, from the Community Therapy Service at the City Hospital, aim to raise awareness of the risk of falling as we age and to promote simple, practical ways to reduce the risk of falls and fractures.
?Falls are the most frequent and serious type of accident in people aged 65 and over," says Senior Physiotherapist Rosie Cooper. "They can have devastating effects on confidence and in many cases leave older people afraid even to leave their homes. Falls should not be dismissed as an inevitable part of ageing.
"We will be joined on the day by community pharmacists and dieticians, occupational therapists, our osteoporosis specialist nurse and a podiatrist. Together we have a wealth of knowledge in the field of falls prevention.
"We are inviting older people, and their friends, family and carers to come along and take this opportunity to ask the experts about their concerns."
Most falls occur as a result of multiple factors, many of which can be easily corrected - for example, the type of footwear, the number and type of medications the person takes, their spectacles or walking aids. The event will include a ferrule (the rubber cap on the end of a walking stick) checking and replacement service.
Balance can be improved through specific exercise and the risk of sustaining a fracture after a fall can be reduced by good diet and bone strengthening exercises.
The event is part of a national campaign run by Help the Aged and Age Concern. Further information is available online at: http://www.helptheaged.org.uk/en-gb/AdviceSupport/HomeSafety/FallPrevention/NFAD/
Corporate Communications
NHS Grampian