Staff from Suffolk Community Healthcare will be giving out important advice to help prevent older people from suffering a fall during national falls awareness day on Tuesday 23rd June.

A huge variety of activities will take place throughout the week to mark the event, which is designed to raise awareness of the simple steps which people can take to protect themselves from falling and injuring themselves.

Falls are the most common cause of accidental death or serious injury among people aged 65 and above, while around half of all those aged over 80 will suffer a fall each year. In Suffolk, this could amount to around 7,000 people annually.

The theme for this year’s event is “get on board”. It has been designed to raise awareness of how older people can prevent falls while getting onto and off buses, which a Help the Aged study has found is one of their main causes of concern.

“Falling and fear of falling is a serious issue for older people,” said Ann Hunt, falls prevention coordinator with Suffolk Community Healthcare. “As well as knocking their confidence, it can lead to isolation and loss of independence.

“We will be working with various statutory, independent and voluntary organisations to help older people to understand how they can protect themselves. We’ll be giving out as much information and advice as we can about the simple steps which everyone can take to help prevent them from suffering a fall and injury.”

Advice for avoiding falls includes:

- Take your time when you stand up – don’t rush
- Wear well-fitting, low heeled shoes
- Don’t stand on stools or store everyday objects above head height
- Eat well and drink plenty of water – especially on hot days
- Make sure you have your eyes checked at least once a year
- Use bath mats, banisters and rails
- Remove any clutter from around your home – especially on stairways

“By following this simple advice, you can significantly reduce your chances of having a fall,” added Ms Hunt. “Carers and families also have an important role to play. By ensuring that carpets are properly secured and all cables and other objects are cleared away, you can help make the home a much safer place for everyone.

“Anyone who is concerned that a friend or relative could be at risk of suffering a fall can also refer them to health staff for an assessment.”

For more advice on preventing falls, please contact SCH’s falls prevention co-ordinators Anita Walkinshaw, on 01473 275250, or Ann Hunt, on 01284 748824 or visit www.fallsandfracturepreventioninsuffolk.nhs.uk