Towards an integrated falls response service for Aotearoa New Zealand: occupational therapy and paramedicine in community care.
The New Zealand medical journal · 2026-05-29 · Scoping review
Abstract
AIM: This article extends on a previously published scoping review by describing the what and the how of a specialised, culturally responsive, joint early falls response service practice between occupational therapy and paramedics that could enhance falls management and prevention for older adults in Aotearoa New Zealand. METHODS: The research replicated a previous literature search, with critical refinements in search terms and criteria, to identify new or previously overlooked research. Research included was pulled apart to describe an overall model that could be utilised for a local context. RESULTS: Fourteen studies focussing on how occupational therapists and paramedics work together were used. Articles discussed rapid response, early response and hybrid models of service to assess patients and effectively prevent recurrent falls. Articles also included studies on effective falls management and prevention involving occupational therapists following a fall. Grey literature sourced included government reports and healthcare evaluations. These sources informed key considerations for developing a falls response service in Aotearoa New Zealand. CONCLUSION: Investing in a rapid response, interprofessional service would enhance quality of life while easing pressure on emergency and long-term care. Cost-effective, community-based solutions present opportunities to support independence, dignity and wellbeing for an ageing population.
Abstract © the authors or publisher, via PubMed. Reuse and removal
Tags
Older adults · Paramedics & EMTs · Quality of life & function
Related articles
- Reducing 9-1-1 Emergency Medical Service Calls By Implementing A Community Paramedicine Program For Vulnerable Older Adults In Public Housing In Canada: A Multi-Site Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial. (Prehosp Emerg Care, 2019)
- Support and Assessment for Fall Emergency Referrals (SAFER 1) trial protocol. Computerised on-scene decision support for emergency ambulance staff to assess and plan care for older people who have fallen: evaluation of costs and benefits using a pragmatic cluster randomised trial. (BMC Emerg Med, 2010)
- Evaluation of a community paramedicine health promotion and lifestyle risk assessment program for older adults who live in social housing: a cluster randomized trial. (CMAJ, 2018)
- The Community Paramedicine at Clinic Program: Improving Participant Health while Preserving Healthcare System Resources. (Healthc Q, 2024)
- Increasing Referrals to a Community Paramedicine Fall Prevention Program Through Implementation of a Daily Management System. (J Trauma Nurs, 2019)
- A falls early response service in Aotearoa New Zealand: a scoping review. (N Z Med J, 2025)