Information for the public

Questions to ask about preventing falls

Questions to ask about preventing falls

These questions may help you discuss your care with your healthcare team.

General

  • Why have you offered me an assessment of my risk of falling?

  • What can I do to avoid falls?

  • How might changing my medicines help to reduce my risk of falling?

  • How do problems with bladder control make me more likely to fall?

  • What types of medical conditions might increase my risk of falling?

  • What might cause me to faint or black out?

  • Why are you suggesting that I see a psychologist?

  • Where can I get further help and advice about preventing falls?

Avoiding falls at home and in your everyday life

  • What changes can be made to reduce my risk of falling and help me keep my independence?

  • Is there anything in my home that might put me in danger of falling? Would changing the arrangement of my furniture help?

  • How will doing exercises help?

  • How often should I do the exercises?

  • Is there an exercise class I can join?

  • How do I get up off the floor if I do fall?

  • How do I get help if I've fallen, for example if I can't get up?

  • Who should I tell if I have had a fall at home or when I'm out and about?

Avoiding falls in hospital

  • Why do you think I am at risk of falling in hospital?

  • Do you have any information about how I can reduce my risk of falling during my hospital stay?

  • When should I ask the nurses for help?

  • How does the nurse call system work?

  • Why do I need a bed rail?

  • Will I get advice on avoiding falls when I'm discharged from hospital?

For family members, friends or carers

  • Is there anything I can do to help my relative or friend to avoid falls?

  • Who should I contact if my relative or friend falls?

  • Information Standard