What tools are being used to identify and mitigate the emotional and psychological effects of falls on senior populations in acute care?

Posted December 14, 2018

The definition of 'harm' as it relates to falls within an acute care setting (and most likely LTC as well) is generally associated with physical harm. The near miss, no harm, mild harm, moderate harm, severe harm and death critical incident reports refer to physical harm. We know that there is also emotional and psychological damage potentially done as well. In fact, it has been referred to in studies as a form of PTSD. Does anyone have a measurement tool, a process or anything else that is used to understand and deal with the aftermath of a fall beyond the physical harm? I'm thinking of older adults who are sent back to their community dwelling following a stay in acute care just as much as seniors with dementia who live in LTC. Thank you to all who can point me in the right direction.