Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, but they can be prevented.
Falls Awareness Week (15 – 19 September) is here to raise awareness and share practical steps to keep you and your loved ones safe, active and independent.
Six Steps to Reduce the Risk of Falling
Keep Moving: Regular activity strengthens muscles, improves balance, and keeps joints flexible. Walking, Tai Chi, or chair-based exercises can make a big difference.
Check Your Vision & Hearing: Have regular check-ups, wear your glasses and hearing aids, and keep your home well-lit.
Make Your Home Safer: Remove loose rugs and clutter, install grab rails where needed, and ensure good lighting, especially at night.
Wear the Right Footwear: Choose supportive, non-slip shoes to reduce your risk of losing balance.
Review Your Medications: Some medicines can cause dizziness or drowsiness. Speak with your GP or pharmacist about side effects and ask for an annual medication review.
Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can cause dizziness, confusion, and fatigue. Aim for 6 - 8 glasses of fluid a day.
Advice for Caregivers
Caregivers play a vital role in preventing falls:
Talk openly about safety concerns.
Learn about fall risks and available resources.
Encourage regular health check-ups and falls assessments.
Be mindful of common risk factors: muscle weakness, vision changes, medications, home hazards, and chronic conditions.