Information for seniors living in residential aged care

Information alone will not change an individual's falls risk taking behaviour. However, the provision of information can raise awareness of the impact of falls and falls prevention activities within a facility, as well as about preventing falls generally. Residents and their families and carers should be provided with information explaining that:

• many falls can be prevented

• there are specific risk factors or causes for falls

• there are a range of actions residents can take to reduce their risk of falling

• falls prevention strategies do more than prevent falls, they help maintain independence and wellbeing, and

• staff and management have put in place actions to address falls within the facility, and what this involves.

Providing information for seniors and their family members about falls and falls prevention can help with the uptake of recommended falls prevention activities. For example, if a senior knows the consequences of a fall they may be more likely to purchase and wear better footwear, or use their walking aid properly.

Below you will find information to help inform seniors living in residential aged care facilities and their families and carers about ways to reduce the risk of falling.

Click the appropriate link below for the information you require:

• Stepping into falls prevention

• Preventing Falls

• Falls prevention checklist

• How to prevent falls

• Falls prevention tip sheets

• Hip Protector information for residents and relatives

• Don't go head over heels

• Why walking is good for you and tips for walking

Other relevant links

• Facts about falls for seniors living independently in their own home