As we get older, the risk of falls increases dramatically – whether it’s due to reduced mobility, vision problems, or conditions like arthritis and dementia. When falls happen, the NHS is there to help. But with an ageing population, it can take longer than we’d all hope to get people back on their feet. And for those who end up bed or chair bound; even short periods of immobility can cause serious muscle loss – up to 6% in just 10 days – which can make recovery even harder.
“I’m Jake, and for the past two years, I’ve been working as a Physical Activity Coordinator at University Hospital Southampton. I see older patients come to us after a fall, often scared and unsure if they’ll be able to take care of themselves when they get home.
My role is to help them get moving again, regain strength and recover faster so they can return home with greater independence and a reduced risk of future falls.”
Having Jake in the hospital, helping us get people moving immediately, has meant that people are recovering faster, and hopefully get home quicker. It gets them interested in moving again – that’s part of the battle, finding the motivation to not give up, especially when you’re much older.
Medicine for Older People (MOP) Unit Advanced Physiotherapist, Pippa Draper.
“My work has been made possible by Southampton Hospitals Charity, in partnership with Saints Foundation. But the need is only continuing to grow with an ageing population. That’s why we need your help to continue funding this indispensable service, ensuring that every older patient who needs help has access to the right care.
A donation from you this Christmas could make a big difference:
- £35 could provide a one-on-one therapy session, helping a patient regain their confidence and mobility.
- £50 could provide a group session for up to 4 patients, offering patients a safe environment away from the ward to be social and have fun.
- £100 could fund a full day of personalised support, ensuring patients receive the guidance they
need to start moving again and prepare for returning home.
Your generosity has already changed so many lives across the south of England. With your continued support, we can help even more people regain their independence after a fall. I’ll be sure to keep you updated on the incredible difference you’re making.”
Thank you,
Jake,
Physical Activity Coordinator
