April Falls Month Wrap-Up: How Whiddon is Leading the Way in Falls Prevention
April is Falls Prevention Month. It is a time to raise awareness about one of the leading causes of injury among older Australians. While the month has recently come to a close, at Whiddon, fall prevention remains a focus every day of the year.
How Our Live it UP! Program Is Reducing Falls
Falls are not an inevitable part of ageing. In fact, with the right prevention strategies, we can dramatically reduce the risk. That is exactly what we are doing through our Live it UP! Program, which launched last year across our Care Homes.
Led by Jennie Hewitt, our General Manager of Clinical Research & Reablement and an internationally recognised falls prevention expert, Live it UP! is delivering impressive results. 50% of Whiddon Care homes achieved a reduction in falls in the first month since Live It UP! was rolled out
As we round out April Falls Month, we are sharing four key tips that are making a real difference. These strategies are helping to improve the lives of the people we care for every day.
1. Food Is Medicine
Nutrition plays a powerful role in keeping people steady on their feet. Research shows that consuming 3.5 serves of dairy-based calcium and protein every day can reduce falls by 10% and fractures by 33%.
At Whiddon, our hospitality teams have worked with dietitians to ensure our menus provide the right levels of calcium and protein. Meals are not only delicious but packed with fall-fighting nutrients. We have also boosted hydration efforts through creative options like water-rich fruits, broths, and Hydration Stations.
Top Tip: Enjoy fortified dairy treats, stay hydrated with 5 cups of fluid daily, and monitor meal intake. Good nutrition builds stronger bones and better balance.
2. Exercise As Medicine
Not all exercise is created equal when it comes to preventing falls. General walking or seated movement can help overall health, but targeted strength and balance training is what truly reduces falls risk.
Through our Exercise4Life programs and Live it UP! sessions, residents work on strengthening their legs, hips, and core muscles. This builds the strength to recover from a stumble and the reaction time to avoid a fall.
Top Tip: Aim for exercises that challenge balance and leg strength, not just general fitness. Even adding a few extra sit-to-stands a day can make a difference.
3. Good Sleep and Night-Time Habits
Poor sleep can increase the risk of nighttime falls. That is why Whiddon has also focused on improving night-time routines.
Simple steps like regulating room temperatures to around 23 degrees, managing evening fluid intake, and offering calming evening snacks all support a more restful night.
Top Tip: Avoid sugary snacks late at night and encourage a calming, regular evening routine to reduce overnight restlessness.
4. Shoes, Glasses, and General Housekeeping
Sometimes, it is the small things that make the biggest difference. During April Falls Month, we also highlighted the importance of:
- Wearing proper footwear. Shoes with a deep heel cup, flexible soles, and secure fastening.
- Choosing the right glasses. Avoiding multifocals when walking to improve visual clarity.
- Maintaining safe environments. Good lighting, clutter-free rooms, and comfortable temperatures are essential.
Top Tip: A quick check of shoes, glasses, and room setups can prevent many falls before they happen.
Our Results Speak for Themselves
Our Live it Up program shows just how powerful these strategies can be. After 12 months:
- 50% of Whiddon Care homes achieved a reduction in falls in the first month since Live It Up was rolled out
- Residents have improved their muscle strength and balance confidence
- Staff have noticed greater independence and quality of life among residents
Falls Prevention Is Part of Our Everyday Care
At Whiddon, falls prevention is not a one-month initiative. It is woven into how we care, support and empower our residents every day.
Through programs like Live it UP!, and through simple but powerful changes in nutrition, exercise, sleep, and environment, we are helping older Australians stay strong, safe, and independent for longer.
Because ageing well is not just about living longer. It is about living better.
If you would like to learn more about our falls prevention initiatives or explore how our aged care services can support you or your loved one, our friendly team is here to help.
Contact us today to find out more.
