Falls
Overview
Anyone can have a fall, but older people are more vulnerable and likely to fall, especially if they have a long-term health condition.
1 in 3 people of the age of 65 will have a fall. Plenty of them in decent health.
Preventing a fall
There are many things you can do to reduce the risk of falling:
Staying active
As we get older, our muscle strength and balance reduces, which can lead to a fall. Exercises designed to improve muscle strength can reduce your risk of a fall by improving your posture, co-ordination and balance
Being aware of medication side effects
It’s important to report to your GP if you are having any feelings of dizziness as these could be caused by your medications. Keep up-to-date with your medication reviews
Regular sight and hearing tests
Deteriorating sight or hearing can greatly affect your balance and/or co-ordination
Make your home ‘fall proof’
Many slips, trips and falls happen in or around the home. Keeping an eye out for potential hazards can make your home a safer place
Helpful resources
- Preventing falls (Age UK) – strength and balance exercises for healthy ageing
- Get Up and Go (Saga) – a guide to staying steady
- Staying steady: keep active and reduce your risk of falling (Age UK) – 8 steps for staying steady
- Moving Medicine website
- 10 Minute Home Workout For Seniors | The Body Coach TV
- 10 Minute Home Chair Workout For Seniors | The Body Coach TV
- Keep Essex Active - an Active Essex initiative to keep the residents of Essex healthy, with Essex instructors. The aim is to keep you moving despite the barriers you may face due to the COVID-19 pandemic. All the activities are suitable for different fitness levels, so there really is something for everyone!