Falls prevention in an Urban Community through a non-clinical approach

Introduction: 
Communicare in Southampton, deliver a programme aimed at falls reduction through the good neighbours’ network charity. This urban community approach has a non-clinical focus and equips community dwellers with knowledge and skills. The initiative comprises information delivery in community gatherings, together with the provision of an “Activity Buddy” approach.   The inclusive programme is developed and delivered cognisant of the background and attitudes of the diverse community served.
 

Method: 
Information delivery is primarily at Communicare’s Friendship Clubs. These gatherings comprise both volunteers, and vulnerable and potentially isolated local residents.  Two  evidence based sessions are delivered by a retired physiotherapist who specialised in falls prevention and recovery. One session focuses on “what to do if someone falls”, including a practical demonstration. The second entitled “How to reduce the risk of falling” incorporates the RoSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) Falls Fighter presentation, with expansion, and includes the six evidence based exercises for strength and balance, for falls prevention.
Activity Buddies initially offer six weeks of support to help with gaining confidence in walking, using public transport, or accessing local activities. An extension may be made available, if engagement continue to show functional gains.
 

Results:
Participants feel empowered to maximise their functional capability and grow in confidence in regaining their mobility.
 

Conclusion:
The approach has been enthusiastically received at all levels. Quality improvement methodology is being engaged to spread the opportunity further in the city.