Falls Management Technology Can Be A Critical Factor In Reducing Hospital Admissions And Loss Of Living Independence

Main Category: Seniors / Aging
Also Included In: Bones / Orthopedics
Article Date: 12 Jun 2007 - 1:00 PDT

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With 'Falls Awareness Day' approaching on June 26th, we feel it appropriate to draw attention to these alarming statistics - and to inform you about the complete Falls Management Solution available from Tunstall. It can play a critical role in reducing the number and impact of falls, whilst providing reassurance, increasing confidence and promoting peace of mind to those wishing to remain living independently.

As 70% of falls happen at night, bed occupancy sensors provide an early warning by alerting the response centre or designated carer that the person has left their bed and not returned during a pre-set time period - indicating a possible fall. PIR (Passive Infra Red) movement detectors raise an alert if a long period of inactivity is detected, signaling if a person has not moved around their home and that they may have fallen. Fall detectors sense the impact and angle of a fall and raise an immediate response from the 24-hour monitoring centre or designated carer via the Lifeline home unit, if assistance is required.

Case example

Mrs L has a tendency to visit the bathroom in the night. Normally not a problem, but on a couple of occasions she has tripped on a misplaced slipper. The second time she was unable to get up and call for help - and lay on the bathroom floor for six hours, until her daughter fortunately visited the following morning.

A bed occupancy sensor was installed, which gently turns on a bedside light when Mrs L leaves her bed at night - lowering it automatically upon return. A timer raises an alarm to the response centre if Mrs L hasn't returned to her bed after a pre determined time.

Mrs L said: "I know my confidence went. At first I didn't like having the sensor, but now I think if I don't make it back to bed, I won't have to worry about spending another night on the floor."

'Carers Week' during June 11th-17th is also approaching. It focusses on the incredible amount of time family caregivers devote to their loved ones - often continuously, with little respite. It's a comforting thought, therefore, that Telecare technology is available - and can provide vital support and reassurance for both carers and the person they are caring for.

Care Directions
http://www.caredirections.co.uk
The internet's unique guide to care and the rights of older people.

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