Action Falls for Domiciliary Care
This project is looking at how to adapt a program called 'Action Falls' so it can help older people who get care at home. 'Action Falls' was first made to help prevent falls in care homes. It helps identify why someone might fall and suggests simple ways to reduce the risk, like reviewing medicines or encouraging gentle exercise. Many people who work in home care think this program could be really helpful for older adults living independently. Researchers want to make sure the program fits the needs of people getting home care. They will talk to older people, their families, and home care staff to find out how to make 'Action Falls' work best in these settings. The hope is that this will eventually lead to fewer falls for older people receiving care at home.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine a program that helps older people avoid trips and falls – that's what 'Action Falls' is all about. It was first developed to help people living in care homes. It looks at reasons why someone might fall over, like certain medicines or not being active enough, and then suggests simple steps to help prevent future falls. Things like making sure shoes fit well, checking medicines, and encouraging gentle movement are all part of it.
Now, people who provide care at home, local care groups, and even older adults themselves think this program could also be really useful for those who live in their own homes and receive support. This project aims to update and adjust the current 'Action Falls' program to make sure it works perfectly for this group of people. Researchers will observe home care visits and talk to older people and their carers to understand what changes are needed.
The main goal of this work is to get the program ready so that, in the future, it can be tested in home care services, especially in areas like Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire. The researchers want to make sure the program is practical and helpful in preventing falls for older people right where they live.
Key takeaways
- This project aims to make a fall prevention program called 'Action Falls' suitable for older people receiving home care.
- It involves talking to older people, families, and home care staff to get their ideas and feedback.
- The goal is to reduce falls and injuries among older adults living at home.
- Participation involves sharing opinions and experiences, not receiving treatment.
- Your input could help improve safety for many older people in the future.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for several groups of people to share their thoughts and experiences. If you're an older person (aged 65 or over) who receives care at home, or if you're a family member who helps support an older person getting home care, your input would be very valuable.
They also want to speak to direct care workers who provide home care services, as well as people who manage or own home care companies. Additionally, senior planners and decision-makers from local councils in Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire are invited to take part.
You won't be able to join if you can't understand what the study is about and give your permission to take part. This study is open to both men and women.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you an older person (65 or over) and receive care at home?
- Are you a relative supporting an older person who gets home care?
- Do you work as a home care provider?
- Do you work in social care that supports older people?
- Can you understand and agree to take part in the study?
- Do you currently receive home care services in Nottinghamshire or Lincolnshire?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, what you do will depend on your role. If you're an older person or family member, you might be asked to have an interview to share your experiences or join a workshop to help design how the program will work. If you're a home care worker, you might be observed during your visits or asked to participate in interviews and workshops. This study does not involve taking any new medications or changing your current care plan. The time commitment will vary, but interviews might last around an hour, and workshops could be a bit longer. The full study is about adapting the program, so you won't be receiving the actual 'Action Falls' program as part of this stage.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University of NottinghamVerified postcodeNottingham, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is 'Action Falls'?
'Action Falls' is a program designed to help older adults avoid falls by finding out why they might fall and suggesting ways to prevent it.
Who is this study for?
This study is for older people getting home care, their relatives, home care workers, and managers, to help adapt the 'Action Falls' program for home care.
Will I get the 'Action Falls' program if I join?
No, this study is about *adapting* the program. The actual program itself will be tested in a future study after it's been updated.
What will I have to do if I take part?
You might be asked to share your thoughts in an interview or join a workshop to help improve the program. Some care workers might be observed during their duties.
Will my information be kept private?
Yes, all your personal information and anything you share will be kept confidential and private.
How to find out more
Katie Robinson, PhD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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