A primary care based fall prevention programme

Abstract

In response to research findings and Government initiatives, a fall prevention programme was set up in Canterbury, UK, in 1996. It is nurse led and takes place in a primary care setting targeting older people who have recently fallen. The programme consists of: A comprehensive assessment and medication review. Referral to other agencies as appropriate. Seated progressive resistance exercises aiming to build muscle strength in the lower limbs. Functionally oriented activity including getting up from the floor. A discussion group focusing on general health issues, emotional matters, goal setting with respect to regaining lost function and summoning help after a fall. The effectiveness of the programme is being evaluated in a randomised controlled trial which will finish in 2 years, after the final participant, who is still in the programme, has been followed up. The purpose of this paper is to describe the organisation and content of the prevention programme, to give preliminary information about recruitment, and to examine the reasons for people refusing to participate.