Wirral Testers Embrace Decaf: Nearly 90% Ready to Brew Up Healthier Lives

Wirral University Teaching Hospital recently conducted a ‘Taste the Difference’ challenge, revealing that 62% of participants could not distinguish between decaffeinated and caffeinated tea and coffee. A further 90% expressed willingness to switch to decaf after learning about its benefits.

Organised by the Trust’s corporate nursing team, the event invited staff, visitors, and patients to test their taste buds and explore the advantages of decaffeinated beverages. The challenge aimed to raise awareness about caffeine’s potential role in increasing the risk of falls, especially among elderly patients.

It’s Falls Awareness Week in September, when the Trust will be raising awareness about falls prevention and injury prevention.

Caffeine, commonly found in tea and coffee, can irritate the bladder, leading to urgency and frequent trips to the toilet. This urgency is a known factor in increasing the risk of falls, a significant concern for patient safety. By promoting decaffeinated options, the Trust aims to mitigate this risk and enhance overall health.

“We are thrilled with the engagement and positive feedback from our ‘Taste the Difference’ Challenge,” said Jenny Burke, a lead falls nurse at the Trust. “The results highlight a simple yet impactful approach to improving patient safety and wellbeing.”

This initiative underscores Wirral University Teaching Hospital’s ongoing commitment to innovative, patient-centred care.

Event organisers: Gill Clayton and Zoe Simpson