Table 1 Guidelines for intervention options for FLASSH study: falls risk minimisation
Risk factor | Intervention options if risk factor identified |
|---|---|
History of falls/falls injuries | Referral to GP Appropriate acute management if injury recent |
Medications (number) | Refer to GP for medication review |
Medications (associated with increased falls risk) | Refer to GP/specialist for medication review |
Medical conditions (associated with increased falls risk) | Refer to GP/specialist for review |
Sensory loss: vision | Brochure on lighting and home safety Refer to optometrist Refer to Ophthalmologist via GP Refer to Vision Australia (includes mobility training and aids for visually impaired) Refer to OT for home assessment Refer to GP |
Sensory loss: hearing | Refer to audiologist |
Sensory loss: somatosensory | Refer to podiatrist Refer to GP |
Feet and footwear | Refer to podiatrist Provide information about good footwear and falls prevention |
Cognitive status | Refer to GP Memory Clinic referral in consultation with GP if memory problems have not been investigated Referral to OT for strategies to facilitate memory and/or home assessment |
Continence | Refer to GP Continence clinic referral Refer to physiotherapist Refer for OT home assessment/functional assessment, including need for commode |
Nutritional status | Provide brochure on nutrition Refer to dietician GP referral |
Environment | Provide with information pamphlet on safety in the home Refer for OT home assessment/functional assessment and training |
Function | Refer to OT for home assessment/functional assessment and training Refer to Physiotherapist for assessment and exercise to improve function Referral for support services |
Functional behaviour | Refer to physiotherapist, OT, GP |
Balance | Home exercise program Referral to Physiotherapist Referral for OT for a home assessment Referral to GP for further investigation |
Gait and physical activity | Home exercise program Referral to Physiotherapist Referral for OT home assessment/functional assessment and training Brochure on tips for walking |
Osteoporosis risk | Refer to GP for consideration of calcium and/or vitamin D supplements Refer to dietician Hip protectors |
Additional options for preventing falls injury | Hip protectors Personal alarm |