§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what initiatives there are to improve pensioner mobility and safety. [19355]
§ Jacqui SmithWe recognise the importance of improving and maintaining the mobility and safety of older people. A number of initiatives within both health and social care will contribute to these aims. Of prime importance are the National Service Frameworks for Older People and Coronary Heart Disease, which stress the importance of physical exercise. Other initiatives of particular importance to older people include intermediate 941W care and the integration of community equipment services. Also, to reduce the incidence of serious injuries caused by falls in older people, the Department is funding several pilot schemes that help frail older people in nursing homes and sheltered accommodation improve their ability to walk without falling.