Don’t let confusion cloud the risk of falls is the message health experts are highlighting as they aim to raise awareness and help prevent falls during April Falls Day this Wednesday, April 1.
In NSW, falls lead to around 27,000 hospitalisations and at least 4,000 deaths in people aged 65 years or older each year. The risk of falling can be increased by memory loss, physical illness and being in unfamiliar surroundings.
Ms Shane Bolsom, CNC Quality and Patient Safety at Camden and Campbelltown Hospitals said people with confusion (memory or thinking problems) have an increased risk of falling.
“Confusion can be caused by a sudden illness (delirium), or a long term illness that affects the memory (dementia),” Ms Bolsom said.
“Delirium is when people become confused because of a sudden illness such as an infection, effects of medications, pain, dehydration or malnutrition. They may become agitated, disorientated or have changes in level of consciousness.
“Delirium can develop without dementia. So identifying it early, treating the cause and managing the symptoms is very important to keep your family member safe,” she said.
A fall is serious and can lead to long-term hospitalisation, loss of independence and the need for supported care.
Ms Bolsom also said that family members and carers may be in a better position to notice changes in behaviour and function.
“It is important to tell your GP or health provider if you notice any changes in usual behaviour,” she said.
For more information on falls prevention visit www.cec.health.nsw.gov.au and click on the April Falls Day 2015 link.
