Falls Prevention

What to Do If You Have Had a Fall

GP

Your GP is the first point of contact for help and advice. They can refer you on to other services as necessary. Even if you were unhurt after falling, see your GP.

District nurse

District nurses will regularly be involved in visiting and caring for people in their own homes. They can assess and advise on the risk of falling and will refer to other professionals as necessary.

The Council

Adult and Community Services can arrange for an assessment of your problems and then provide appropriate support and care.

Physiotherapists

Physiotherapists are skilled in the assessment and management of mobility problems and can advise on suitable mobility aids. They are also able to give advice and information on suitable exercise programs to improve balance and stability.

Your GP can refer you to a physiotherapist either in your own home or in the surgery or at the local hospital.

Occupational therapists

Occupational therapists are skilled at assessment of problems that affect the activities of daily living and function. They sometimes work for us and can advise on aids and adaptations in the home.

They also work within the NHS and can visit patients at home or see them in the surgery or at the local hospital. They can do much to help reduce the risk of falling with advice and help about your home environment.

Opticians

There is an increased risk of falling if you have problems with your vision. Have your eyesight checked regularly and your optician can give advice and help to improve your vision.

Chiropodists

Chiropodists are skilled in dealing with problems affecting feet. Poor footwear and problems with your feet can affect your balance and stability. Chiropodists can offer help and advice on these issues.

They work in surgeries and health clinics and often visit patients in their own home.

Specialist falls clinics

It may be necessary for a GP or health care professional to refer to a specialist falls clinic for further advice and help. This clinic is supported by a full multi professional team of health care staff who will have specialist knowledge and skills.

They will be able to offer help and advice for the more complex problems and difficulties that you may have.

Contact

Falls Prevention Coordinator

2 Stour Road

Dagenham

RM10 7JF

Tel: 020 8227 2713

Fax: 020 8227 2449

Email: claire.flood@lbbd.gov.uk|