We’ve got links to two separate articles about Falls. The first is from the Association Of Ambulance Chief Executives. Their Managing Director says “Every winter we see thousands of older people who have fallen and struggled to get back up, often spending some time on the floor as a result. Many of these ‘long lies’ could be prevented. A mobile phone in your pocket, a pendant alarm around your neck or wrist, or practising how to get up from the floor while you’re well could make a real difference.”
Their website includes lots more detail on these insights and is well worth a read.
Here are their top tips to prevent falls this winter:
- Carry a mobile phone or wear a pendant alarm.
- Have a key-safe or give a spare key to someone trusted.
- Wear well-fitting slippers with grip.
- Keep paths clear of clutter and trailing wires.
- Stay active – even gentle movement helps.
- Eat regularly and keep hydrated and don’t drink too much alcohol, especially if you feel unsteady.
- Get your eyes and hearing checked.
- Never rush when standing up.
Meanwhile, the older person’s organisation, Independent Age say that “Anyone can have an accident, but a fall can affect your confidence, even if it doesn’t result in an injury. Our risk of falling increases as we age, but falls are not inevitable and there are things you can do to stay steady on your feet.”
They recommend you take some time to walk around your home and use their checklist to help you find any hazards. Ask someone to help you if you can.
