QA Forum

Question & Answer

We are discussing The Self Management of Arthritis
With Graeme Rossiter, Elizabeth Scrivener and Sally Ranford

Question:
I have rheumatoid arthritis in my knees, feet and hips and recently had a fall, but did not break any bones. I know falls are a part of getting older but is there any equipment that can help prevent another fall?

Answer:
Sally - Falls Prevention:
Actually falls are not a natural part of the ageing process -in most cases falls are preventable and avoidable.
You didn’t say where you had the fall or what you were doing at the time but some of the common reasons for falls are slips and trips in wet areas like the bathroom, using towel rails and toilet paper holders for support, rug and mat hazards, slippery outdoor surfaces (like an icy Canberra winter’s morning!), climbing up ladders or other steps to reach objects up high….the list goes on!
If you don’t already have access to an Occupational Therapist, I encourage you to ring the Independent Living Centre in your state/territory to find your nearest Occupational Therapist and/or Falls Prevention program.

Walking Equipment:
Many people visiting the ILC after a fall come with the intention of getting a walking frame as they believe that this will afford them more support.
Wheeled walkers with a resting seat can be an important tool in supporting people to live confidently in the community but they are not the only solution.
Examples of wheeled walkers (and other types) can be viewed at http://www.ilcaustralia.org- click on Product Search, go the state/territory of your choice and select Walking and Mobility Aids.

Hip Protectors:
These are small plastic shields which fit over the bone in the upper outer part of each thigh, below the hip. They are held in place with a modified undergarment which has a pocket to hold the shield. They are designed to help reduce the impact of a fall and in turn to reduce the risk of hip fracture. Information on availability and price can be found at http://www.ilcaustralia.org, by phoning your local ILC and/or Falls Prevention program.

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