People with confusion, including those suffering dementia and delirium due to illness, are the focus of the 2015 April Falls Day theme: Don't let confusion cloud the risk of falls.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
People with confusion can be at a higher risk of falling. Blayney Health Service want to inform its residents, patients and the community about falls prevention.
On Thursday, April 9, a barbecue, tai chi demonstration and falls prevention information display will take place for hospital residents and patients.
A Falls Prevention Information display for the community will be held at Blayney IGA on Friday, April 10 with tai chi, pole walking and Stepping On demonstrations.
The Clinical Excellence Commission's (CEC), NSW Falls Prevention Program has developed resources to help promote better care for patients with confusion and prevent them falling.
Lorraine Lovitt, Leader of the Program, said that it is important to find the reason for the patient's confusion as a first step and then interventions could be put in place to help prevent a fall in consultation with the patient, family and carers.
She said signs of confusion could be sudden and fluctuating. There may also be signs of increased agitation, disorientation or changes in the level of consciousness.
Families and cares of patients in hospital can provide staff with valuable information if they find their loved one is more confused than 'normal'.
"A fall is serious and can lead to long term hospitalisation, loss of independence, the need for supported care and, in some cases, premature death," Ms Lovitt said.
One in three people older than 65 have a fall each year, but falls can be prevented.
For more information on falls prevention visit the CEC website and follow the April Falls Day 2015 link: http://www.cec.health.nsw.gov.au/programs/falls-prevention/april-falls-day-2015.
For more details about the Blayney activities, please contact Kathy Hillier on 6368 9000.
