Falls are a major cause of injury for older people. There are a number of reasons for someone falling. These may include poor balance, unfamiliar surroundings and obstacles in and around the home, poor eyesight, unsafe footwear and some medicines to name a few.

Everyone plays a role in preventing falls:

- Be active every day in as many ways as you can, exercise to improve your balance, strength and flexibility.

- Ensure healthy eating and keep fluids up.

- Talk to your doctor about managing medications and chronic medical conditions to reduce risks of falls.

- If you have a walking aid, make sure it is in good condition and that you use it rather than using the furniture or walls for balance.

- Wear comfortable clothing that is not to long or loose, wear comfortable low heeled and non-slip shoes that fit well.

Take your time getting up from sitting or lying down.

- Have your eyes tested annually. If you have glasses only wear your distance ones when walking. Take special care when using bi-focal or multi-focal glasses.

- Visit a podiatrist regularly.

- Repair or replace carpets with worn areas, holes or long threads.

- Check mats and rugs are secure and have no tears or wrinkles.

- Install grab rails in the bathroom and toilet.

- Keep outside of the home hazard free to prevent trips or falls.

What do you do if you have a fall at home?

- Don’t panic, Stay still for a few minutes and try to calm down.

- Decide whether you can get up yourself.

- Call for help if you can.

- Dial triple zero (000) to telephone emergency services.

- If you can get up yourself:

– Roll onto your stomach and try to get onto your knees

– Push up using a stable piece of furniture and try to get onto your knees

– Push up using your strongest leg and arms while still firmly holding onto the furniture, sit down on the furniture.

- If you cannot get up by yourself :

– Try crawling or drag yourself and find anything to keep warm.

– Use personal alarm if you have one. If not try to alert neighbour.

Remember prevention is easier and better than the cure.