Resource pack launched aimed at preventing falls
The Pharmacy Healthcare Scheme has launched a community pharmacy information
pack aimed at helping prevent falls among older people.
The pack, which is supported by the Department of Health, the Department
of Trade and Industry and the charity Help the Aged, includes guidance
for pharmacists on preventing falls on stairs. Also included is a list
of free support material available through the Help the Aged campaign
‘Avoiding slips, trips and broken hips’.
Yve Buckland, chairman, Pharmacy Healthcare Scheme, said at the launch:
“Pharmacists are well aware of the risks medicines play in contributing
to a fall. Pharmacists can help prevent falls by conducting regular medicines
reviews, advising on prescribing changes and highlighting the risks in
the home, such as poorly lit stairs which could cause falls.”
Supporting the launch, Professor Ian Philp, national director for older
people’s services, said: “More than half of all prescriptions
are written for people over the age of 60 making community pharmacy a
valuable and accessible focal point for health information.”
The pack is being sent to community pharmacies in England next week.
Further packs and fact sheets are available from the Pharmacy Healthcare
Scheme (tel 020 7572 2265 or email phs@rpsgb.org.uk).
|
