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Reasons for falls
Reasons for falls and some basic steps you can take
Feet - poorly fitting, worn out footwear
- Make sure your shoes/slippers hold your foot firmly in place, and avoid narrow heels, open backs or worn soles
- See a podiatrist if your feet are painful
Eyes - reduced visability (whether poor lighting or vision itself)
- Have your eyes tested regularly (every two years if under 70, annually thereafter) - it's free if you're over 65
- Look after your glasses and clean them often
Health - not eating properly, staying hydrated and taking medication as prescribed
- Keep eating healthily, and don't go long periods between meals
- Drink lots of water
- Always take your medicines on time, as prescribed - are one of the side effects of these dizziness/light headedness, disturbed balance or drowsiness?
- Be aware of changing weather conditions
Mobility - lack of mobility can lead to muscle weakness, staying in because of fear of falling etc
- Try to keep doing little things every day, it will help you maintain balance and muscle strength
- Continue with any exercises you have been advised to do
Home - worn carpets, curled rugs, uneven steps, trailing wires etc
Look out for hazards
- Worn floor coverings, or curled up edges of mats/rugs
- Tripping hazards - including clutter, trailing cables, dark coloured animals
- Poor lighting - on the stairs or at night near the bathroom
- Low beds and chairs - make getting up a struggle
- Slippy floors in kitchens and bathrooms
- Keep your home warm