Falls And Balance

Aims

For some time now there has been anecdotal evidence that, as beneficiaries grow older, falls and/or balance problems are becoming more common, and the associated fear of falling is affecting peoples’ daily lives. Research was carried out with beneficiaries in 2016 to discuss the main problems they were experiencing.

What was found

The research was done through completion of an online survey and by taking part in a telephone discussion group. The main subject areas covered were:

• frequency and causes of falls
• medical help sought
• consequences of the fall - physical, psychological and social
• prevention, solutions and support

The information on the areas varied depending on the severity of the thalidomide damage as well as the age of the beneficiary. However, a common theme was that people were often reluctant to go to their GP as they felt that the GP would not understand the implications of their thalidomide damage in relation to falls.  In addition, many found that fear of falling affected their independence and general wellbeing.

The discussion groups revealed that it was reassuring for the beneficiaries to know that they were not alone in experiencing problems with falls and balance.  It was felt that by providing information about these problems was an important step to help all beneficiaries and GP's understand the issues.

View the full published article here:

Falls and Balance Problems Briefing Paper FINAL

 

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