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Falls Prevention

Have you ever had a fall, were you injured? What would the impact be if the same were to happen now? Falls can have a serious effect on anyone! Our Falls Prevention team can help you

Do you feel safe and secure?

  • Would a lifeline or community alarm system help?
  • Where do you feel off balance - would a rail there help?
  • Are your alarms/pull cords easy to reach when necessary?

As you get older

Many things that come naturally now, can become more difficult so be aware of:

  • Dizziness or light-headedness as you get up out of a chair or bed
  • Feeling more drowsy than usual
  • Changes in the way you walk, it being harder than before, or being off balance
  • Rushing to, or needing to go, to the toilet more often
  • Feeling confused
  • Are you nervous about the possibility of falling?

“top five” reasons for falls

1. Feet - poorly fitting, worn out footwear

Look after your feet

  • Make sure your shoes slippers hold your foot firmly in place, and avoid narrow heels, open backs or worn soles
  • See a podiatrist if your feet are painful 

2. Eyes - reduced visibility (whether poor lighting or vision itself)

Look after your eyes

  • Have your eyes tested regularly (every two years if under 70, annually thereafter) - it’s free if you’re over 65
  • Look after your glasses, and clean them often

3. Health - not eating properly, staying hydrated and taking medication as prescribed.

Stay Well

  • Keep eating healthily, and don’t go long periods between meals 
  • Drink lots of water
  • Always take your medicines on time, as prescribed - are one of the side effects of these dizziness/light headedness, disturbed balance or drowsiness?
  • Be aware of changing weather conditions

4. Mobility - lack of mobility can lead to muscle weakness, staying in because of fear of falling etc 

Stay active, stay steady

  • Try to keep doing little things every day, it will help you maintain balance and muscle strength
  • Continue with any exercises you have been advised to do

5. Home - worn carpets, curled rugs, uneven steps, trailing wires etc.

Look after your home
Look out for hazards:

  • Worn floor coverings, or curled up edges of mats/rugs
  • Tripping hazards - including clutter, trailing cables, dark coloured animals
  • Poor lighting - on the stairs or at night near the bathroom
  • Low beds and chairs - make getting up a struggle
  • Slippy floors in kitchens and bathrooms
  • Keep your home warm

If you need any further information or would like to speak to one of our team, please contact us on 01204 382411 or email: fallsprevention@ageukbolton.org.uk