Orange Health Service launches new patient and carer resource to help reduce risk

Niki Weston, Acting Allied Health Manager at Orange Health Service, said the resource is available to all patients and carers and provides vital information on preventing common ailments people experience as they age, like falls in the home, malnutrition and pressure injuries.

“As people age their health and wellbeing needs change, they often become more complex and that can put people at higher risk of further health concerns. Taking steps to stay active and healthy is the best way to prevent that,” Ms Weston said.

“Our teams will always be here to support and provide care for anyone who needs it, but our information guide is designed as a starting point to help people build their knowledge, take those steps, and help avoid a hospital visit at all.

Ms Weston said the guide provides key background on what risk factors to look out for and outlines tangible action patients and carers can take to minimise that risk, and assistance finding additional support and resources for those who need it.

“It’s incredibly important to know what to look out for as a risk factor, but we also wanted to provide guidance on how to reduce or prevent that risk. Without that, it can be a bit overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start,” Ms Weston said.

“So we’ve made sure the guide provides simple and effective strategies to minimise the risk of falls, malnutrition and pressure injuries which people can put in place immediately, but also provided options for longer-term, ongoing support if people need it.

“For example, maintaining a healthy, nutritious diet is a key factor in avoiding falls, malnutrition and pressure injuries, so our guide provides simple examples of how people can do that by looking at the nutrients the body needs, what foods provide those and how supplements can help.

“We also know improving balance and mobility is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of falls in the home. By providing some simple, low-impact exercises and guidance on how regularly to do them, people can start building their strength immediately.

“We recognise that everyone has different needs and capabilities, and risk prevention strategies are not one-size-fits-all. So our guide also provides advice on where people can go find more support if they need it, and our team is here to connect people with additional support and programs, and navigate those pathways.”

Anyone who would like to access Orange Health Service’s Patients and Carers Guide to Pressure Injuries, Falls Prevention and Malnutrition can contact nicole.weston@health.nsw.gov.au to request a copy.