Key Findings and Implementation Strategies
The study identifies five key themes that are crucial for developing an effective falls management programme for AWID:
- Programme Approach: A standardized, educational, and awareness-raising programme is essential. It should identify individual falls risks and promote proactive actions while considering the subjective nature of risk perception.
- Programme Delivery: The programme should bridge information gaps across different care settings and services, and integrate seamlessly into existing care systems like annual health checks.
- Inclusion of Stakeholders: Both carers and AWID should be meaningfully included in the programme to facilitate engagement, ownership, and independence. A multidisciplinary team approach is also recommended.
- Programme Design: The design should be personalized, accessible, and flexible. It should be available in both paper and digital formats and should use appropriate terminology to ensure inclusivity.
- Programme Components: The programme should include a detailed clinical assessment, resources for AWID and carers, and a clear action plan to mitigate identified risks.
Practical Steps for Practitioners
To improve your skills and create better outcomes for AWID, consider the following practical steps:
- Standardize Practices: Implement a standardized falls management programme to ensure consistency and equity in care.
- Educate and Raise Awareness: Use the programme to educate AWID, carers, and healthcare professionals about falls risks and prevention strategies.
- Engage Stakeholders: Actively involve AWID and their carers in the programme to ensure it meets their needs and preferences.
- Multidisciplinary Approach: Encourage collaboration among different healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care.
- Adapt and Personalize: Tailor the programme to meet individual needs and preferences, making it as accessible as possible.
By implementing these strategies, practitioners can make significant strides in reducing falls and improving the quality of life for AWID. The study highlights the importance of a proactive, inclusive, and flexible approach to falls management.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: What are the views of adults with an intellectual disability (AWID), carers and healthcare professionals on a community falls management programme for AWID: a qualitative interview study in the UK.
