The Atticus Falls & Balance information evening was recently held on 17 & 18 May.
Our panel of experts (Podiatrist, GPs, Registered Nurse and Geriatrician) provided education and advice to the community about the risk of falling, how to improve balance and live safer at home.
Our resident podiatrist David Lee provided tips on recommended footwear to avoid falls, what footwear would more likely cause falls, and useful guidelines and reminders about mobilising (look, lead and land).
Atticus GPs then provided education about factors that can affect a person’s mobility and increase their chance of falling due to medical conditions, such as hypotension (low blood pressure) which can lead to dizziness, heart disease, infections and environmental factors.
Lastly, our Geriatrician provided his comprehensive insight about important related factors including cognitive impairment and dementia, management and the treatment of delirium, and muscle weakness as we age. In addition, education about medications and any side effects that can affect our balance and increase falls (e.g. benzodiazepines, and opiates) was elaborated on.
At the end of the session, the audience was given the opportunity to ask questions and that lead to some great discussion.
