Zinged zimmers reduce falls at Derbyshire care home

ZIMMERS are getting zinged at a Derbyshire care home after a visit from charity Age UK – helping to reduce falls by up to 60%.

Emma Richards, from Age UK Derby and Derbyshire, visited Longmoor Lodge Care Home in Nottingham, to give residents’ zimmer frames a revamp.

The aim of the scheme, called Zinging my Zimmer, is to make walking aids personalised so they are more easily recognised by their owners.

Paint, colourful wrapping, name plates, flowers, ribbons, bags and other accessories are all used to make each residents’ zimmer stand out.

As well as adding a splash of colour to the frames, the activity has multiple benefits for residents, staff and visitors to the care home.

Emma said: “Zinging my Zimmer is funded by Erewash Clinical Commissioning Group, as it helps reduce falls among those in need of a walking aid by up to 60%.

“Residents can sometimes leave their walking aids behind because they all look the same and they don’t recognise it belongs to them.

“By making the walking aids more person centred, they are more likely to know it’s theirs, pick it up and use it – therefore reducing the chance of a fall.

“Decorating the zimmers has also helped engage residents, staff and family members in craft sessions. They also promote confidence, individuality and a more active lifestyle.

“I’ve been contacting homes in Derbyshire to see if they fancied Zinging my Zimmer and it just took off. It’s such a rewarding thing to do.”

Among those to benefit from the scheme at Longmoor Lodge Care Home, on Longmoor Lane, are husband and wife Geoff and Evie Curson.

Home manager Samantha Ely said: “Geoff and Evie are so happy with theirs.

“Geoff has limited mobility and we are currently encouraging him to do more. As soon as we gave him back his green jazzy frame, which he chose all the colours for, he instantly got up to give it a try.

“Evie was so happy with the little bag on hers and said she can put her lipstick in it now.

“Having been provided with materials from Age UK, the staff at Longmoor can continue zinging up zimmers for those residents who would like to take part.”