Problem 4: Risk of Fall Assessment and Prevention

Question 1

Discuss what should be carried out and implemented after Anna’s fall?

Answer 1

Older people who present for medical attention because of a fall, or report recurrent falls in the past year, or demonstrate abnormalities of gait and/or balance should be offered a multifactorial falls risk assessment. This assessment should be performed by a healthcare professional with appropriate skills and experience, normally in the setting of a specialist falls service.
Identify falls history, osteoporosis risk, functionality or visual impairment, cognitive impairment, urinary incontinence, home hazard test, cardiovascular examination and review.

Interventions include strength and balance training, home hazard test and intervention, vision assessment and intervention, medication review with modification and withdrawal.