Falls Prevention: A UK Mapping Review of Patient-Facing Resources

Introduction
Around a third of people aged 65 and over fall every year and falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospital admission among older adults in the UK. Despite evidence that physical activity reduces falls risk, public awareness of falls prevention information is low. Improving access to this information and leveraging the unique clinical contacts of paramedics to support early signposting, may enhance the reach of falls prevention resources empowering older people to help reduce their falls risk.

Method
We conducted a systematic mapping review to identify UK-based, community-oriented, patient-facing falls prevention resources suitable for ambulance staff promotion. Searches were performed in May and June 2025 across AMED, CINAHL PLUS , MEDLINE, APA PsycInfo, EMBASE from 2015–2025 as well as comprehensive grey literature sources (including NHS and charity websites, Google, YouTube, and trial registries). Eligible resources were screened and extracted independently by two reviewers. Resources requiring additional home visits or clinician input were excluded. Extracted data included format, contents, sector, and any evidence of effectiveness or validation.

Results
A total of 39 unique resources were identified; 30 of these met criteria for broad generalisability beyond local programmes. Formats included websites, videos and documents, and originated from NHS, charity, council, and private sectors. All resources incorporated some form of physical activity guidance; the majority also covered home safety, footwear, medication review, vision checks, strength and balance training, GP check-ups, and calcium/vitamin D intake. Mapped findings reveal variable content coverage with no formal evidence of effectiveness or validation reported.

Conclusion(s)
A diverse range of UK patient-facing falls prevention materials exists, but contents vary and there is a lack of supporting evidence. Evidence mapping highlights current resource priorities and identifies potential resources for paramedic-led signposting to improve falls prevention engagement and outcomes among community-dwelling older adults.