Prevent a Fall – Keep Safe and Well This Winter
Many falls can be prevented as they are not an inevitable part of ageing. The following advice can help you and your loved ones prevent falls, keeping you safe at home and outdoors, and what you can do if a fall occurs.
Regular eye checks
As you get older your eyesight can change. Regular eye tests can help find conditions that might put you more at risk of falling. Eye tests are free for people over 60, so make sure that your eyesight is tested regularly, even if you think it is fine. Look after your glasses and clean them regularly and buy sunglasses that can help to reduce the glare from the winter sun.
Stay Active
Maintaining your overall health is key, so take regular exercise to improve your strength, balance, and coordination. Walking, strength and balance exercises are especially beneficial. There are specific classes happening all over Chester, check out your council website, your local library or GP practice for information on classes in your area.
Medication side effects
Certain medications can increase the risk of falls so it’s important to talk to your GP and regularly review all your medications. It’s good to understand the potential side effects that could affect your balance or coordination and take steps to minimise them. Never stop taking any prescribed medication without speaking to a GP first.
Keep your home well-lit and clutter free
Take some time, or ask for help, to clear clutter away from floors or stairs as this will give you more room to walk around freely. Move things such as small furniture and pet bowls and get rid of any loose mats and rugs or use rug grips. Make sure you have enough lighting to help you move safely from one place to another, especially on stairways and in hallways. Consider getting a lamp, night light or torch by the bed in case you need to get up during the night.
Be prepared for cold weather
The drop in temperature during the winter means more chance of ice, snow and falling leaves, so it’s important to be extra careful when going outside. Spreading sand or salt on icy surfaces on your driveway, garden paths, and steps can help.
Make sure you are dressed for the cold weather, put on shoes that have a good grip and wear gloves to protect your hands in case you do fall. Ask for support from your family and friends – could they go with you when you leave the house, or help clear your driveway and paths of ice and snow?
Always make sure to have enough food at home, so you don’t have to go out if the weather gets really bad.
What to do if you or someone else falls
If you do happen to fall, first check for any pain or injuries before attempting to get up. If you feel unable to get up safely, call for help. If you’re able, roll onto your hands and knees and look for a stable piece of furniture, such as a chair or bed. Hold on to the furniture with both hands to support yourself and, when you feel ready, slowly get up. Sit down and rest for a while before carrying on with your daily activities.
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