Community
22 November, 2024
Learn how to reduce your risk of falls
SOUTH West Healthcare will be providing residents with key information to help reduce the risk of falls as people look to get more active in the warmer weather.
Clinicians from Camperdown Community Health are providing a free falls prevention information session on Thursday, November 28 from 10am-12.15pm for all members of the community.
Camperdown and Lismore Community Health manager Lauren Patterson said as the weather warms up people will be looking to spend more time outside, which quite often raises concerns about falling.
“Falls are the leading cause of injury for those aged 65 and older, leading to pain, loss of confidence, and fear of further falls which can diminish activity levels, quality of life, and independence,” she said.
“We encourage people to come and meet in-person with our occupational therapist, physiotherapist, dietitian, local pharmacist, and Community Health nurses at the session.
“Many people find they have concerns about balance and dealing with pain or a chronic condition prior to commencing a new activity however there are many ways to address these worries.”
Camperdown Community Health can offer individual assessments to create a home-based exercise program or the option to join exercise groups run at the centre at 140 Manifold Street.
Mrs Patterson said physiotherapist Riley Owen would be on hand to offer education and support for those looking to commence exercise as many times aging can make starting an exercise routine feel daunting.
“Our occupational therapist Rachael Mason will speak about modifying tasks to reduce the risk of falls and enhance safety in the home,” she said.
“Nutrition also plays a key role in falls prevention as a good diet can improve recovery time, and our on-site dietitian Sophie Threlfall can provide general advice for older adults to help reduce the severity of fall-related injuries.
“We are also pleased to have our local pharmacy available on the day, who can review medications you take and educate you and your caregivers about ones that may increase fall risk and ways to improve medication management.”
The session is being held at the David Newman Community Centre, located at 20A Church Street, Camperdown.
For more information and to book, contact Camperdown Community Health on 5557 0900.
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