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Around a third of people over 65 fall at least once a year, and falls are a leading reason older people lose confidence or move into a care home. Many falls can be prevented with simple changes.
Make the home safer
- Bright lighting on stairs and landings, and night lights on the way to the bathroom
- Remove loose rugs, trailing cables and clutter from walkways
- Grab rails by the toilet, bath and front door
- A chair in the kitchen or bathroom so tasks can be done sitting down
- Commonly used items kept between waist and shoulder height
Check the person, not just the house
- Ask the GP or pharmacist for a medication review - some tablets cause dizziness, especially in combination
- Have eyesight checked regularly and keep glasses clean and to hand
- Wear well-fitting shoes or slippers with a back and a firm sole
- Drink enough during the day; dehydration contributes to dizziness
- Get up slowly from bed or a chair to avoid a drop in blood pressure
Build strength and balance
Strength and balance exercises are one of the most effective ways to prevent falls. Many areas offer falls prevention classes, and the NHS website has simple exercises for older people. A GP can make a referral to a physiotherapist or falls clinic.
Get the right equipment
The council's adult social care team can arrange an occupational therapist to assess the home. Small equipment and adaptations are often provided free. A personal alarm worn on the wrist or neck means help can be called if a fall does happen.
When more help is needed
If someone has fallen more than once, or is frightened of falling, having a carer living in can mean help with showering, stairs and night-time trips to the toilet - the moments when falls most often happen.