In this episode of the Clinical Update podcast, MIMS Learning editors Pat and Sangeeta discuss falls in older people, highlighting tips on assessment, the benefits of exercise, and the role of deprescribing in primary care.
Falls among older people cost the UK health and care system an estimated £4.4bn annually. Drawing on insights from consultant geriatrician Dr Anna Steel and NICE and British Geriatrics Society (BGS) guidance, Pat and Sangeeta cover multifactorial risk assessments and the ‘exercise as a drug’ approach.
The editors highlight the critical importance of medication reviews, particularly focusing on ‘FRIDs’ (falls risk-increasing drugs). As Dr Steel notes, patients often value their immediate quality of life and mobility over long-term cardiovascular protection, making shared decision-making essential. The episode also details pragmatic prescribing targets for blood pressure and diabetes in frail patients to minimise harm.
Educational objectives
After listening to this podcast, healthcare professionals should be better able to:
You can access the website version of this podcast, along with a list of key learning points, on MIMS Learning - and make notes for your appraisal. MIMS Learning offers hundreds of hours of CPD for healthcare professionals, along with a handy CPD organiser.
Please note: this podcast is presented by medical editors and discusses educational content written or presented by doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals on the MIMS Learning website and at live events.
MIMS Learning
A practical guide to conducting a structured medication review
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