There are many simple things that you can do to help stay steady on your feet. It is very common to feel anxious if you have had a fall or feel unsteady.
In hot weather, older people are much more vulnerable to dehydration, leading to an increased risk of falling. Read MORE
Exercise regularly – Strengthening activities that challenge your balance, like gardening, dancing or brisk walking. Regular activity such as walking or gardening can help keep you fit and healthy. There are also specific exercises to strengthen the muscles of your legs and improve your co-ordination and balance. Read about ActivLives Strength and Balance sessions.
Regular sight and hearing tests– Eye tests are free for everyone over 60 and many places offer free hearing tests too. Speak to your GP if you have any concerns about your sight or hearing. Vision plays an important role in your sense of balance too so have your eyes checked regularly. For more information read our page on Your senses
Vitamins & minerals – A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D will help to keep your bones strong. Dairy foods, fortified soya products and canned fish are good sources of calcium. Exposure to sunlight is good way to absorb vitamin D. Healthy eating advice
Look after your feet – Foot problems can have a major effect on our balance and stability. Wear shoes that fit you well. Avoid loose slippers or those with no backs, sandals and high heels. Wear well-fitted shoes and slippers, and report any foot problems to your GP or chiropodist. Visit our page about foot care
Check for home hazards– Make sure your home is well-lit and any wires, clutter, loose mats or frayed carpets are tidied up or secured. Consider having a personal alarm so you can get help whenever you need it. Always take care on the stairs and consider an extra banister or handrails to make everyday activities safer. Keep the floor free from clutter, which you may trip over. If you fall and are worried ask your GP to refer you to the Falls Service.
There are many things you can do to reduce the risk of a fall. Visit www.ageuk.org.uk for tips and advice.
Your GP can help and may also refer you for a falls risk assessment.
FALLCHECK is an app to help prevent falls in the home. Based on information from occupational therapists and falls experts in the UK, the app gives a comprehensive guide to alert you to potential fall hazards that might be present in your own or a relative's home. Information on how to remove or reduce the risk to help prevent falls is provided by the app. Download from the NHS Health Apps Library
For more information visit: www.coventry.ac.uk/fallcheck
www.ipswichandeastsuffolkccg.nhs.uk/Fallsdirectory