Falls - Reducing the risk of falls at home

Environmental tips

• Check for clutter, wires or wet floors.
• Clean up spillages as quickly as you safely can.
• Loose rugs should be removed or secured.
• Use night lights and have a lamp by your bed.
• Handrails should be securely attached to the walls.
• None slip mats in the bath/shower.
• Outdoor steps cleared of moss and wet leaves.

Good habits

• Make sure you have your glasses and good lighting.
• Keep your walking aid close enough for you to reach before you stand up.
• Never rush, allow plenty of time to get your balance when you first stand up.
• Give yourself enough time to get to the toilet.
• Make sure your shoes fit, trousers aren’t too long and your dressing gown cord or shoelaces aren’t loose.
• Keep your phone and other items you use regularly within reach.
• If you have a falls alarm, wear it!

Lifestyle tips

• Know your limitations If there is a task you cannot easily complete, do not take a risk, ask for help.
• Group tasks together to minimise going up and down the stairs.
• Pace your activities, taking regular breaks.
• Check with your doctor or therapist about the physical activity and exercise appropriate for you.
• Getting up from the chair/bed or bending over can cause dizziness, so take your time.
• If you have been feeling dizzy or light-headed, speak to your doctor.
• Some medications may cause this and increase your risk of falls

Help available

• If you have a fall, feel unsteady or have a fear of falling speak to your GP who can:
• Refer you to a physiotherapist who will help you improve your balance, and will provide walking aids if necessary.
• Refer you to an occupational therapist who can assess your home environment and help you make adaptations if needed.
• Arrange for a care package, if you are struggling to safely manage at home and would benefit from assistance with meals and personal care.
• Create“rescue packs” on the floor, including a bottle of water, cushion and a blanket, so if you do fall you have access to these items whilst awaiting help.

If you fall

• Do your best to stay calm.
• If you have no injuries, try to crawl to a chair that you can use to help yourself up.
• If you have an injury or need assistance to get up, call 999.

• Last Updated:
  26 June 2023
  
• Review Date:
  30 June 2024
  
• Author:
  Falls Prevention Steering Group
  
• Summary:
  

  ANYBODY CAN FALL! You can have a higher risk of falls following any illness or surgery.

  
  
• Related Service:
  
  

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