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Many older people are frightened of falling and are reluctant to talk about it. But falls are not an inevitable part of ageing.

Many older people can be resistant to messages about falls prevention. They may be reluctant to talk about it because they:

  • are frightened of falling and don't believe anything can be done
  • believe the myth that falls are just a part of growing older
  • believe falling is just a matter of chance
  • know that they are at risk of falling but don't believe they can do anything about it
  • believe because they haven't had any falls, it will never happen to them
  • deny they are at risk because they see a fall is a sign of weakness or inability to manage.

But falls are NOT an inevitable part of ageing, and we know that while the causes of a fall may be complex, there is plenty that can be done to reduce their risk. The sooner the better!

Fear of falling is a major risk as people tend to limit their activities in order not to fall, which results in increasing muscle weakness, poor balance and a higher risk of falls.

If you are concerned about yourself, an ageing parent, family member or friend,
USE THE TOOLS BELOW TO HELP SOMEONE STAY SAFE AND AVOID FALLS.

FallsAssistantTile FallsAssistant_text_0317

HandsTile Mobility_Balance_0317

ElevateElevate_Aug18

StandTallFP_Simple_Ex

FuelTankFPFuel_Tank

AgeUK_Prev_FallsStrength_Balance_0317

FallcheckTile__002_ Fall_Check_0317

For those who prefer printed material, please click on the following images:

Get Up and Go leaflet

Staying Steady

Strength and Balance
GetUpGoTile StayingSteadyTile MyConditionTile

The following videos have been developed by RoSPA (The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) as an approach to fall prevention in the home:

RospaTileRoSPA_Facing_up_to_Falls

RospaTile Getting_up_after_a_fall


 

Fact Zone

The potential benefits of physical activity to health are huge. If a medication existed which had a similar effect, it would be regarded as a wonder drug" or "miracle cure". - Sir Liam Donaldson, Annual Report of the Chief Medical Officer, 2009