FRESH medical advice designed to prevent falls among the over-65s has been welcomed by the Lancashire Telegraph’s medical expert.

New recommendations by NICE (National Institute for Clinical Excellence) urge GPs to regularly ask whether senior citizens have suffered falls since their last check-up.

Routine queries could also be made when OAPs turn up for physiotherapist appointments, visit their pharmacist or social workers call around.

The watchdog has taken the step as those who have fallen in the past year or more likely to fall again.

Dr Tom Smith, the Telegraph’s health expert, said the practice was already common in some areas and the information would often be sought by nurse practitioners, as well as GPs.

He added: “The nurse practitioners would usually be the ones who would check a patient’s balance and build up that relationship with them.

“What has been very interesting in recent times also has been the growth in gentle exercise classes, such as tai chi, which can assist people with their balance and mobility.”

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Dr Smith said he also supported home checks to look out for loose carpet or hidden obstacles which could trigger falls.

East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust last month reported a significant drop in the number of hip fractures, caused by ward falls.

Prof Cameron Swift, a healthcare expert who helped to draw up the NICE guidance, said: “We recognise that regular questions about falls may seem intrusive or repetitive.

“But older people often think that episodes of falling or unsteadiness are unimportant, or that to raise them could threaten future independence.

“By contrast, effective measures are now known to reduce the risk of falls, maintain independence and promote ongoing health. It’s vital, therefore, that these are offered to those who need them.”

Prof Gillian Leng, NICE deputy chief executive, added: “We know prevention is better than cure when it comes to falls, particularly in older people. Asking older people about falls on a regular basis will identify those most at risk.”