I work in a care home

Why do falls happen to care home residents?

It is often a combination of reasons that leads to a fall. Here are a few possible things that might be involved:

Health – e.g. eyesight, pain, strength or hydration
Medication – too many medications or certain types

Environment – e.g. furniture, lighting, noise

Other factors – e.g. footwear or walking aids

If they do happen, how can they be managed?

All care homes have plans for how to manage a fall. These can vary, but usually involve:

Assessing the resident where they are to make initial decisions
Giving first aid and calling emergency help if needed

If suitable, using trained techniques and sometimes equipment to help them up

Reassessing, getting further advice or help if needed, and monitoring

Recording all information, and where appropriate reporting

How can care homes reduce falls?

As falls have many reasons there is not one simple answer to this question. By recording information care homes can learn from patterns of falls. The patterns can be in individuals or across the home.

Along with specialist advice, input and resources you can find ways to reduce falls. Examples include:

Checking footwear and foot health

Physical activity programs

Good nutrition and hydration for residents

Medication reviews
Checking walking aids, hearing aids and glasses

Staff training and ensuring good staffing levels
Ensuring a safe environment

Where can I get more information?

For further information and resources please visit the care home page and look for your local area. Or check your company’s policy on falls prevention and management.

React To provide online resources and training developed in partnership with health and care staff to ‘React To falls’ in care homes.

Care homes