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Preventing falls

If you're feeling unsteady or have experienced a fall in the past, taking proactive steps to prevent future falls is essential. Don't hesitate to ask for help. it’s an important part of staying safe.

How do I prevent a fall?

Health conditions, mobility, medication and footwear can all affect your ability to stay steady on your feet. Health conditions can change and deteriorate gradually so it is important to have regular check-ups at your GP surgery to avoid a fall happening. 

Stay active

As we get older our muscle strength and balance decrease which can lead to a fall. It is important to take regular exercise to improve muscle strength and stamina. 

Have regular eye tests

Poor or failing eyesight can lead to a trip or loss of balance. 

Have regular hearing checks

Problems with your ears can seriously affect balance and reduced balance can lead to a trip or a fall.

Manage your medication

Some medication can make you feel dizzy or faint and prone to losing balance. Check with your GP if this starts to happen.

Look after your bones

Bones become fragile with age with many people prone to osteoporosis. Support bone health with Vitamin D and calcium supplements. 

Wear the right shoes

Wear supportive, well cushioned shoes that are not likely to slip off. Avoid sandals and high heels. Never walk barefoot or in socks or slippers which can increase the chance of slipping and falling. 

Avoid alcohol

Drinking can lead to loss of coordination and long-term alcohol use can lead to loss of bone density and osteoporosis. 

Always keep hydrated

Being dehydrated can lower blood pressure which can make us feel faint and prone to falling. 

Create a safe environment at home and in your garden to reduce the risk of falling. 

How can we help with falls prevention

Most slips and falls happen in and around the home. You can request an assessment of you and your home environment, so that we can identify risks and hazards and make recommendations for making your home a safer place. 

Occupational Therapists (OT) often suggest the following measures:

  • ensure that you have good lighting especially on the stairs
  • ensure the stairs are clutter free with no creases or threadbare carpet
  • recommend handrails both sides of the stairs to support your balance and mobility whilst travelling up and down
  • ensure you have a night light or torch by your bed in case you need to get up in the night
  • ensure that your clothes i.e. skirts, dresses and nightdresses are not too long
  • make sure your floors are all clear of trailing wires, rugged carpet and lose rugs – if necessary secure your rugs down with double sided Velcro tape
  • consider a non-slip bathmat and rails to support you getting in / out of the bath
  • never stand on a chair to reach an item, use a sturdy step ladder or low step
  • keep your garden paths clear free of moss and ensure your paving stones are level and not posing a trip hazard
  • if you have a pet, consider a collar with a bell so you know where they are when you are moving about and do not trip over them
  • consider a personal alarm system so that you can summon help easily if you do fall
  • ensure your heating is adequate and your home is at a consistent temperature
  • make sure your mobility aids are suitable and meeting your needs
  • ensure your furniture is not too low i.e. your bed or your chair
  • make recommendations for suitable equipment and minor adaptations such as level door thresholds and rails along long corridors and in the bathroom
  • recommend telecare solutions for those who are at risk of falls. A fall detector worn around the neck on a pendant will detect a fall and alert a monitoring centre or a Carer