12/12/2025
β It's First Aid Friday! β
Today's Topic: Falls π΅
With Christmas just around the corner and many a family gathering planned, now is the time to think about ways you can help support and make your home a bit friendlier for grandparents and guests older in age, who are at a higher risk of suffering a fall π΄
Although they may sound minor, falls were the leading cause of injury hospitalisations in 2023 - 24 and the leading cause of injury deaths in 2022 - 23*
With people aged 85 years and over more likely to be injured by falls, most minor falls can thankfully be treated at home by gently reassuring the casualty, slowly helping them up, making them comfortable and monitoring to ensure no further damage or injury requiring medical assistance has occurred.
If you do have an older guest attending celebrations, the 4P's approach - which takes into account asking the person if they require any assistance with pain, positioning, placement or personal needs - is a great concept to help prevent any falls. And in terms of helping to reduce risk, be sure to remove any trip hazards, encourage the person to take their time when moving and use walking aids as required to help prevent a visit to hospital across the festive season.
Christmas is a time for family and gathering, so let's take some extra time to look out for those a bit older, who used to do such a good job looking out for us ππ«Ά
*Australian Institute of Health and Welfare www.aihw.gov.au/reports/injury/falls