Scenario 4

Question 1

Stokes definition concussion

Answer 1

Traumatic brain injury caused by a direct blow to the head, neck or body which results in an impulsive force being transmitted to the brain

Question 2

How to reduce risk of concussion according to Eliason

Answer 2

• Balance and mobility training- heel to to walking, reduces concussion in youth athletes by 60%, this principle applies to older adults too for fall prevention
• Safe environment, no slippery floors, fool proof, supportive shoes
• Provide education workshops so people are aware of the risks
• focus on interventions to help the elderly from falling, focusses more on a personalised approach- to help meet needs of all.

Question 3

What are the symptoms of concussion

Answer 3

• May present immediately or be delayed over several hours
• Headache, dizziness, confusion
• Blurred vision, nausea, balance problems
• Memory issues, slower processing, emotional changes- irritability, anxiety

Question 4

why does injury prevention matter

Answer 4

• 5% of cases lead to fractures or hospitalization.
• Most common fractures, hip, waist, and shoulder

Question 5

How to reduce risk of injury according to sherrington

Answer 5

1. screening – to identify individual risks, TUG, FRAT, PAR-Q- asses mobility, balance and strength and cognitive status if relevant to concussion
2. Programme design- safe and personalised programmes- different levels with different targeted interventions, balance training, strength training, mobility and strength – progress all slowly
3. Monitoring – prevent overuse or missed risks- weekly check ins and RPE- progressive overlaod
4. Train staff- safety and consistency- first aid- clear protocols
5. Psychological factors- build confidence and engagement to prevent fear and drop outs. Set goals, praise and encourage
6. Review and adapt- help long term effectiveness- see number of falls feedback questionnaires

Question 6

Name some challenges of injury prevention related to concussion according to Chodzko-zajko

Answer 6

• fear of injury
• mixed ability levels
• low exercise confidence as they may not have exercised for a long time

Question 7

Psychological issues relating to concussion

Answer 7

• Fear of falling- this leads to reduced movement as they are scared they may fall- this leads to increased weakness and fall risk
• Low self-efficacy, they have a low belief in their ability to recover or exercise – according to Bandura’s self-efficacy theory. This theory explains how confident you are to succeed in a specific situation
• Depression or anxiety may be present following injuries can limit participation

Question 8

What strategies could you use to combat psychological issue

Answer 8

• Incorporate confidence building activities: goal setting would be effective as well as positive reinforcement
• Use peer-led components (older adults leading the warm up and sharing the progress
• Address fear of falling directly with education and gradual exposure, this will help to increase their confidence and self-belief that they can succeed.