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Falls Prevention

As we get older, the risk of serious injury increases however the fear of falling can also cause restrictions to how people live their lives.

Below you will find information on how you can minimise the risk:

  • wear well-fitting shoes/slippers with good tread
  • ensure your stairs are well lit and have rails or bannisters
  • remove rugs or only use rugs with non-slip backs
  • move furniture so it is not in your way when you walk
  • try to keep walkways clutter free especially on the stairs
  • use a non-slip mat in the bath or shower
  • consider fitting extra handrails to the stairs and in the bathroom
  • keep items that you regularly use within easy reach and if you do have reach something at a higher level, use a firm stepladder
  • keep a light at the side of your bed so that if you do have to get up in the night, you can turn the light on first
  • if you use walking aids, ensure that the rubber feet (on the bottom of the aid) are in good condition – these can be replaced without purchasing a new walking aid
  • consider a pendant alarm which will help you to summon help if you fall. If you already have a pendant alarm, make sure that you wear it at all times

Health

  • have your eyes checked regularly
  • have your blood pressure checked by your GP especially if you are falling as you get up out of bed or out of a chair
  • if you are having problems with your mobility, talk to your GP
  • eat healthy and take regular exercise. Activities that improve your muscle strength as well as balance exercises if you suffer from joint pain can help overcome stiffness
  • have a hearing test – fluid in the ear can cause some balance problems

What is TEC?

Technology Enabled Care is the use of technology to provide health and care services to people in their own homes, helping people to live independently and safely. An example is having a ‘lifeline’ which is a call button worn as a pendant.

For further information on Technology Enabled Care, please visit the Technology Enabled Care (TEC) webpage.

Further Information

The following links have more information about falls prevention, although some of the sites are targeted towards older people, the information that they provide may be relevant to everyone:

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