Fall detectors first phase results

Findings from the Fall Detector Project are now available on line, and confirm detectors are more likely to be used and are most effective if they are well designed and suit the needs of the person using them. 

The project is run in partnership between Improvement and Efficiency West Midlands, Coventry University Health Design and Technology Institute, and West Midlands Local Authorities and PCT’s. It is funded by NHS West Midlands Regional Innovation Fund.

It set out to evaluate the use of fall detectors in the region, with the purpose of understanding users’ experiences and improve the allocation and use of the devices.

The project also aims to encourage closer relationships between manufacturers, service users and staff, to bring about better design and reliability. 

The next phase of the project will look at:

• raising awareness of fall detectors within the general public
•  inspiring telecare manufacturers to improve the design of their products
• continuing to spread best practice across the region
• evaluating falls prevention and falls response services throughout the West Midlands.

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