New video offering practical advice on falls prevention and safety tips

A NEW video offering practical advice on falls prevention and general safety tips for vulnerable people has been launched by a local healthcare for older persons team.

The video was released last week by the Dublin South, Kildare & West Wicklow Community Healthcare Tallaght Integrated Care for Older Persons (ICPOP) team, as part of Sláintecare.

The team, which serves the needs of vulnerable older persons in Tallaght and Clondalkin, is launching the video with the aim of informing the public about practical steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of falls at home and in the community.

Falls are one of the most common reasons for an older person being referred to an ICPOP team for supports, according to the team.

The team comprises specialist doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and medical social workers through a joint venture with Tallaght University Hospital and HSE Community Services for Older Persons.

Falls remain the most commonly reported incident within the HSE and HSE funded services, with 35,187 falls reported in 2018, including 15,773 in acute hospitals and 15,027 in social care.

A study undertaken by The Irish Centre for Social Gerontology in 2007 estimated that fall-related injuries in older people would have a direct cost of approximately €1587m to €2043m by 2030.

The falls prevention video is one step in highlighting the importance of community education in tackling this growing issue, according to the ICPOP team.

The video is available now on the DSKWW Community Healthcare YouTube page and contains prevention advice such as being aware of slip and trip hazards, and keeping your house clutter free.