BBC Morning Live recently visited our Falls Team at Broadgreen Hospital to find out more about the great work we’re doing for patients who have come to us after having a fall.

Our falls classes, named ‘Otago’, were established in 2007 to start rehabilitating patients within the first 72 hours of a fall. Those who attend the clinic can expect to be enrolled on a 12 week course, consisting of a two hour session each week. The classes focus on different elements of falls prevention, including environmental trip hazards, foot care, bone health and much more. Patients also partake in a number of sitting and standing exercises to increase their confidence and build muscle strength.

The coverage includes snippets of exercises you can do in your own home, as well as top tips to avoid trip hazards from our Occupational Therapist, Jen:

  • Clear walkways of trip hazards – unsecured rugs, electric cables, loose carpet joins, toys, etc
  • Wear appropriate footwear – well-fitting flat shoes with nonslip soles fully fastened around the foot
  • Ensure good lighting around your home – especially on the stairs, bedroom, and hallways
  • Steps or stairs are safer with a handhold support like a grab bar or banister
  • Place commonly used items in the kitchen or the bathroom on shelves or in drawers within arm’s reach    
  • Use your walking aid if you have been prescribed one and move furniture to allow for access around the home.

For further advice on falls prevention, exercises to build strength and balance, and much more, click here.

For more information about the Otago clinic watch the coverage below.