Community
12 April, 2024
Camperdown Community Health helping reduce falls
CAMPERDOWN Community Health will be running a series of sessions to help reduce to risk of falls and to raise awareness of the risks and harm that can be caused by falls to the elderly population of Camperdown and surrounds.
The six-week initiative is part of the ‘April Falls Month’ campaign, with the sessions aiming to reduce attendees’ risk of falls and improve their balance.
The program will include six weekly sessions running for one hour and will cost $5 for group sessions.
Camperdown and Lismore Community Health manager Lauren Patterson said falls are a significant cause of harm for older people, with 37 per cent of injury-related deaths caused by falls.
“Falls are the number one cause of accidental injury in older Australians. As our population ages and the number of older people grows, the number of falls and fall-related hospitalisations increases,” she said.
“One in four people, or 30 per cent of those who are aged 65 and over, have at least one fall per year.
“Falls are often due to gradual physical changes that affect the way we move, like reduced balance, decreasing vision, memory changes and weak muscles.
“Falls can also be due to dangers around the home including steps, trip hazards like rugs, cords or even pets, poor lighting or slippery floors.”
Ms Patterson said the program caters to those who are afraid of having a fall, those at a higher risk of falling, and those who have already experienced a fall.
“The weekly sessions will each run over one hour, and include education from a physiotherapist, occupational therapist, dietitian, continence nurse, pharmacist, and the Corangamite Shire Navigation team.
“As well as education the group will focus on exercise including activities to reduce your risk of falls and balance activities with the aim to improve your mobility, confidence, strength.
“Falls can cause hip fractures and other serious injuries that may need longer hospital care and have long term effects,” they said.
“Even if the fall results in no serious physical injury, people often find their confidence decreased and, as a
consequence, may become more inactive which can lead to an increase risk of more falls.”
The sessions will run from 2pm to 3pm on Wednesdays from April 17 to May 22.
Attendees are advised to bring comfortable clothing, their everyday shoes, any walking aids they may use, glasses, and are invited to bring a support person or carer if they wish.
For more information, phone Camperdown Community Health at 5557 0900 or email camintake@swh.net.au.