Falls Prevention Awareness Week 2024 will take place from 23rd to 27th September 2024. This annual campaign focuses on raising awareness about the risk of falls among older adults and promotes simple strategies to prevent them, both at home and when outdoors.
How to Stay Safe at Home and Outdoors
As we age, the risk of falling becomes more significant, and the consequences of a fall can be serious, impacting not just physical health but also overall independence. Falls Prevention Awareness Week is an important time to highlight ways older adults and their families can take simple steps to reduce this risk—both at home and when walking outdoors.
Here, we’ll cover key precautions to be mindful of, ensuring that you or your loved one can remain safe, active, and independent for longer.
Safety Around the Home
Our homes should be places of comfort and safety, but they can also pose risks for falls if we aren’t mindful of common hazards. By making a few adjustments, you can significantly lower the risk of accidents:
1. Keep Floors and Walkways Clear
Clutter, such as shoes, magazines, and electrical cords, can easily cause someone to trip. Make sure walkways, hallways, and stairs are free from obstructions. If there are any rugs in the home, ensure they are secured with non-slip mats or tape to prevent slipping - or better still, remove the rugs completely.
2. Improve Lighting
Good lighting is essential in preventing falls, especially at night or in areas with poor natural light. Ensure that all rooms, hallways, and staircases are well-lit. Motion-sensor nightlights can be particularly useful for illuminating dark areas without the need for fumbling with switches.
3. Install Handrails and Grab Bars
Handrails should be installed on both sides of the stairs, providing extra stability when going up or down. In the bathroom, grab rails next to the toilet and inside the shower or bath can prevent dangerous slips.
4. Review Flooring
Slippery floors are one of the leading causes of falls at home. If possible, replace highly polished surfaces with non-slip materials. In bathrooms and kitchens, use non-slip mats where water or condensation may make the floor more slippery.
5. Organise Daily Essentials Within Reach
Avoid stretching or using stools to reach items stored in high places. Store frequently used items in cupboards or drawers that are at waist or shoulder level to avoid unnecessary risk.
Staying Safe Outdoors
Walking outdoors is excellent for health, but it also comes with hazards. Pavements, uneven surfaces, and weather conditions can make falls more likely. Here’s how to stay safe:
1. Wear Proper Footwear
Supportive, non-slip shoes with sturdy soles are key to avoiding slips and trips. Avoid wearing loose-fitting shoes or slippers outdoors, as they increase the likelihood of falling.
2. Be Mindful of Surfaces
Pavements can be uneven, especially in older neighbourhoods. If you notice cracks or uneven paths, take extra care by walking slowly and watching your step. It may also be helpful to avoid particularly uneven routes, especially if they are not well-lit.
3. Use Walking Aids if Necessary
If balance is a concern, consider using a walking stick or frame when outdoors. These aids can provide extra stability and confidence, especially on uneven ground or when walking for longer distances.
4. Take Care in Wet or Icy Weather
Weather conditions such as rain, frost, or ice dramatically increase the risk of falls. It’s important to be cautious and, where possible, delay walking outdoors until conditions improve. If you must go out, take extra time, and ensure your shoes have a good grip. In particularly icy conditions, consider wearing ice grips over your shoes.
5. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can affect balance and cognitive function, leading to dizziness and a higher risk of falling. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, particularly before heading out for walks.
Strengthening Your Body to Prevent Falls
Aside from making adjustments at home and being cautious outdoors, working on balance and strength can also help prevent falls. Exercises that focus on improving muscle strength, balance, and coordination are beneficial. Activities such as walking, Tai Chi, or seated exercises can help older adults maintain their strength, making them less prone to falling.
Have a Plan in Case of a Fall
While prevention is key, it’s also important to have a plan in place in case a fall does happen. Knowing how to respond can make a big difference in reducing the impact of a fall.
- Wear a personal alarm device: This allows you to call for help immediately if you do have a fall, even if you are unable to get up. We recommend Careline365 and you can get 15% off your purchase using our GMC15 discount code.
- Keep a phone nearby: Having a mobile phone within easy reach can help in the event of an emergency.
- Inform family or neighbours: Make sure someone checks in with you regularly, particularly if you live alone.
Conclusion
Falls Prevention Awareness Week is the perfect time to take action and make changes that can significantly reduce the risk of falls. With a few simple adjustments, both at home and when walking outdoors, you can create a safer environment for yourself or your loved one, helping to maintain independence and well-being.
By taking steps to prevent falls, you’re not only avoiding injury but also empowering yourself to stay active and engaged in the activities that bring you joy. Let’s work together to ensure that falls don’t stand in the way of enjoying life to the fullest.
