Falls

Falling over is something that we have all experienced. As we grow older, the deterioration in our balance, underlying illnesses or disabilities can result in more falls. Currently, one in eight patients in hospital are admitted due to a fall, and 50% of people over 80 years old fall every year. Many people see falling as an inevitable part of growing older and it can result in serious injuries. What many people do not realise is that it is almost always possible to reduce the chances of them happening, or make our environments safer for when they do happen. This book covers all aspects of falls, explaining why they happen, the common consequences, and what can be done to prevent them. It is intended for patients and their families, but will also be of value for health professionals at all levels. Falls: The Facts is an informative and practical guide, containing advice on what to do and how to cope when falls occur. It includes personal accounts of patients and their relatives to illustrate true experiences, and the positive outcomes that treatment can produce.