Falling a lot - several times a week

[Sorebigtoes]

Hi, it's my first post on this board but I need some advice. My stepFIL is not good and been told he has weeks/months left. He's at home after a lengthy hospital stay but falling frequently - several times a week - particularly at night. It's difficult to get specifics from MIL but I know he has fallen while sitting in his chair and fallen out of bed. Each time they have to call an ambulance as MIL can't get him up. They check him over and then leave (which is what they both want). Sometimes they have to wait seceral hours for the assistance, however. This sounds wrong to me - shouldn't an OT or someone be advising how to prevent the falls in the first place? I.e. different chair/bed/ways of moving around?

[CMOTDibbler]

Does his GP know about the falls? That should be the first port of call, then they can refer him to the falls prevention team to get the right help.
Or if he's being looked after by a hospital team, then they may refer as well

[PeppermintPatty1]

Definitely ask for specialist falls input. Falls are so common but can be so problematic. Sometimes simple things like not allowing yourself to wake properly before going to the loo at night can make someone unsteady enough to fall. If he's got diabetes or circulation problems that can add to unsteadiness. There are so many factors! It's worth getting him assessed to see what practical measures can help. Good luck.

[Sorebigtoes]

GP knows but as far as I can gather they haven't had a falls prevention assessment. Things are developing and it looks like he's going to respite for a couple of weeks. Will suggest falls prevention team (if there is one) assess before discharge. Thanks!

[Helenluvsrob]

Yep. Falls assessment. In respite will be some help. Though obviously not 100% comparable to home.

Sometimes though falls aren't preventable and the solution they have might be how they want it to be. It was as my parents were for some time though not needing ambulance input so often, dad or the neighbours could get himself up.