A survey to explore what information, advice and support community-dwelling people with stroke currently receive to manage instability and falls.

AbstractPurpose: To describe and determine the benefits of the information and support services currently offered to people with stroke experiencing instability and falls.Methods: A cross-sectional survey study. Two hundred and fifty-six surveys were sent out to community stroke groups in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, as well as to people with stroke on a patient register.Results: One hundred and twenty-five surveys were returned. A total of 107 participants (86%) reported instability and 62 (50%) had experienced a fall in the preceding year; 29 (28%) had reportedly received information on falls prevention. Forty-four participants (43%) sought help from health professionals following instability and falls; just over half reported that the information they received was useful. One quarter (n = 11) of those seeking help were referred on to falls clinics; all attended and 86% felt attending had been beneficial. However, only one participant was followed up by these clinics.Conclusions: Findings suggest th...