National Service Framework for Older People: management of falls

The National Service Framework (NSF) for Older People was launched in England in the Spring of 2001. It sets out national standards and guidelines and with an increasingly ageing population is welcomed as a way forward to improving the care of older people across the health and social care spectrum. In Wales, work is underway in developing an 'Older persons' strategy', which is expected to reflect the main principles of the NSF. The NSF is underpinned by eight standards which are identified as priority issues. This article focuses on standard six: the prevention, treatment and management of falls. The implications and opportunities for health promotion that may arise from the standard are considered, in particular with reference to the development of an integrated falls service.