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About us
The Falls and Balance Clinic has a team of health professionals with expertise in balance and mobility problems for older people. After a detailed assessment the team will identify the main factors causing your unsteadiness or falls, develop a management plan with you and provide you and your carer/s with information and support.
The staff in the clinic will work with you, your carers and other health service providers to refer you to physiotherapy or exercise groups, provide information on how to make your home safer and simplify medication requirements. They may also offer counselling and other management strategies to help you maintain your dignity, confidence and independence.
What will happen at the clinic?
Your initial assessment is divided into two visits. These are usually two weeks apart. Both visits will take about two hours. On your first visit you will be seen by a specialist doctor and a podiatrist. On your second visit you will be seen by a physiotherapist, occupational therapist, nurse and sometimes a psychologist.
We may organise a follow-up appointment about six weeks and again about six months later. We will be interested to know how your balance has been over that time and we will be happy to discuss any new concerns.
What should I bring?
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Your normal glasses / eye wear
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A list of your current medication
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Your usual shoes or footwear
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The normal walking aid/s you use (eg a stick or walking frame)
Who is eligible?
Anyone who experiences falls or balance related problems. We generally see people who live in the local city council areas of Melbourne, Moreland and Hume but may accept referrals from other areas after discussion.
For information about falls and balance services in other parts of Victoria refer to NARI Falls Clinic Directory
How much does it cost?
There is no charge for this service however, materials (eg walking aids) used outside of the clinic are not supplied.
Links
NARI Falls Clinic Coalition
Commonwealth Department of Health Ageing: Falls Prevention Information
Falls & Balance Clinic Brochure (PDF) |
