South Central Ambulance Service’s campaign to raise awareness of falls and frailty, following significant rise in 999 calls

South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) has announced a month-long campaign to raise awareness of falls and frailty in older people, following a significant increase in 999 calls, writes Martha White.

John Lloyd, specialist practice manager at SCAS, said that falls often result from a combination of intrinsic factors - such as muscle weakness and poor balance - as well as extrinsic factors, like poor lighting or unsecured rugs.

The campaign will also raise awareness of SCAS volunteer community first responders in attending non-injury fall call outs.

The Falls and Frailty Care Service is available to patients showing symptoms of frailty or who have had a fall through 999 or NHS 111 calls, or GP referrals.

Maddie Jones, falls car lead at Hampshire & Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: ‘’The frailty practitioners bring a wealth of frailty expertise from therapy and nursing backgrounds.”

Information will also be given to allow the public to identify and remove potential trip hazards for vulnerable patients and alleviate pressure on emergency ambulances.

Across the UK, ambulance services receive approximately 700,000 fall-related calls from patients aged 65 and over across the UK, making up about 10% of all 999 calls.

These falls are estimated to cost the NHS over £2.3 billion each year.

Falls are a serious concern, not only financially but also for the physical and psychological impact on the elderly. They can lead to serious injuries, loss of independence and reduced activity levels.