Empowering Strength and Balance for a Safer Future
Falls Prevention Week in the UK shines a spotlight on the importance of prioritising strength and balance to prevent falls among individuals of all ages. Falling not only poses significant risks to personal safety but also has a substantial impact on the economy and social well-being. In this blog, we will explore the significance of falls prevention, address the cost impact on the economy, and discuss the social implications surrounding loss of confidence and fear of falling. Additionally, we will introduce the FaME (Falls Management Exercise) model, a proven approach to reducing falls and promoting overall health.
The Cost Impact of Falls:
Falls are a costly burden on the economy, almost 2.4 billion spent last year, resulting in increased healthcare utilisation, rehabilitation, and long-term care. The financial implications extend to healthcare systems, insurers, and individuals themselves. According to studies, falls account for a significant proportion of hospital admissions and healthcare expenditures, placing a strain on resources. By focusing on falls prevention, we can potentially alleviate the economic burden while promoting overall well-being.

Social Impacts: Loss of Confidence and Fear of Falling:
Beyond the financial costs, falls can have a profound social impact on individuals. After experiencing a fall, many individuals may suffer from a loss of confidence, leading to reduced mobility and social engagement. The fear of falling can be pervasive and debilitating, often causing individuals to limit their activities and withdraw from participating in things they once enjoyed. This social isolation can further impact mental health and overall quality of life.
The FaME Model: Empowering Strength and Balance:
The FaME (Falls Management Exercise) model is a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to falls prevention. It focuses on improving strength, balance, and mobility through a tailored exercise program. The key components of the FaME model include:
- Multifactorial Assessment: A comprehensive assessment is conducted to identify individual risk factors and tailor interventions accordingly. This assessment considers medical history, medication use, home environment, and personal goals.
- Exercise Intervention: The exercise program prescribed under the FaME model targets strength, balance, and coordination. It includes a combination of activities such as resistance training, balance exercises, and functional movements to improve overall physical function and reduce the risk of falls.
- Education and Behaviour Change: A crucial aspect of falls prevention is empowering individuals with knowledge and strategies to enhance their safety. Education sessions provide information on fall prevention strategies, home modifications, and self-management techniques. Additionally, behaviour change techniques are employed to promote adherence to exercise programs and reduce fear of falling.
- Ongoing Support: Regular follow-ups and support are provided to ensure the sustainability of falls prevention efforts. This includes periodic reassessments, monitoring progress, and addressing any concerns or challenges that may arise.
iCareiMove supports the Older Adult
Since 2011, iCareiMove has been at the forefront of delivering effective falls prevention programs in Cornwall, empowering individuals to maintain their strength and balance. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, iCareiMove demonstrated remarkable adaptability by pivoting and embracing online platforms to continue their invaluable work. Their courses and training have not only made a significant impact in the care sector but also played a vital role in post-hospitalisation rehabilitation and promoting falls prevention in family homes nationwide.
When the pandemic hit, iCareiMove faced unprecedented challenges. However, they quickly recognized the importance of maintaining their falls prevention programs, especially during a time when vulnerable individuals were at an increased risk of falls due to reduced physical activity and social isolation. By swiftly transitioning their services online, iCareiMove ensured that their communities could still access the support they needed to maintain their strength and prevent falls.

Putting Falls Prevention on the Map
iCareiMove’s dedication to delivering falls prevention programs in Cornwall and their adaptation to the challenges of the pandemic have been commendable. Their commitment to ensuring that individuals, whether in care homes, post-hospitalisation, or family homes, have access to the necessary tools and support to prevent falls is truly inspiring. By leveraging technology and embracing online platforms, iCareiMove has widened their reach and made a significant impact on the well-being and safety of communities across the country. Their ongoing efforts in falls prevention serve as a beacon of hope, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, we can adapt and continue to make a positive difference.
Falls Prevention Week serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritising strength and balance to prevent falls and promote overall well-being. By addressing the financial impact on the economy and the social repercussions of falls, we can better understand the urgency of falls prevention efforts. The FaME model offers a structured and evidence-based approach to reducing falls, empowering individuals to regain confidence, maintain independence, and live life to the fullest. Let us come together to prioritise falls prevention, ensuring a safer future for ourselves and our communities.
For further information contact info@icareimove.com for active wellbeing, midlife and beyond.
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