Falls Prevention
NMDHB in alliance with the Primary Health Organisations are raising awareness of falls prevention. We are asking people over 65 years to assess their falls risk by answer these three questions:
1. Have you had a previous fall in the past 12 months?
2. Are you on 4 or more medications?
3. Do you have a fear of falling?
In New Zealand many older people sustain injuries due to falling. Even 
when no injury has occurred, a fall can result in loss of independence, loss of confidence and an increased fear of further falls. Although falls are common in the older population, they are not a natural part of the aging process.
Once a person has fallen, they may live in fear of further falls, resulting in reduced activity, reduced participation in social activities and loss of muscle strength and balance, which increases the risk of repeat falls.
Older people value their independence and a fall can limit their ability to remain self –sufficient.
The good news is – most falls are preventable.
