Older people and their families need to be aware of how to prevent falls and how to access services that reduce the risk of falls. The community pharmacy team can provide information and advice passively (through information boards and leaflets) and actively (through discussion with patients, family members and carers). Information can be provided about suitable local exercise classes and online resources. 

How to talk to people 

Many older people are reluctant to accept advice about preventing falls. There are many reasons for this:

• They think it is only relevant to people older and more frail than themselves
• They feel confident of their capabilities and do not want to be stigmatised as ‘old and frail’
• Some people who have fallen do not believe they will fall again because they attribute falling to momentary inattention or illness rather than persistent vulnerability
• Although some may accept they are at risk of falling, they believe nothing can be done because it is an inevitable part of ageing
• Others accept they are at risk but feel the downsides of preventative measures outweigh the benefits.

So rather than focusing on the risk of falls, it is better to talk to an older person about the benefits of improving strength and balance, staying active and maintaining mobility and independence. Targeting people according to their age, risk of falling or fear of falling is unlikely to be effective and advice given in an overly instructive tone is unlikely to be well received. People are more likely to make use of information and opportunities if they can choose the advice and activities that will suit their abilities, needs, priorities and lifestyles.

Reflective exercise

Think about how you could go about making older people aware of the benefits of exercise to increase muscle strength and balance.