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