Aims: To identify existing falls prevention activities and support for future initiatives among residential institutions for older people.
Methods: A self-administered questionnaire was sent to all principal nurses/managers of residential institutions. Information was sought on whether falls were perceived to be a problem in the Auckland region, current falls prevention practice and interest in future prevention initiatives.
Results: Falls were perceived to be a problem by over 75% of 175 participating institutions. Assessments of footwear, medication use and environmental audits were the most common prevention strategies employed by over 80% of institutions. Almost 70% of institutions indicated their willingness to participate in future prevention projects.
Conclusion: The current use of fall prevention strategies in institutions is encouraging. However, the strategies that are being employed are not consistent with current evidence about effectiveness. Increased use of vitamin D and possibly calcium supplementation needs to be encouraged as does the use of hip protectors and lower extremity strength training.