Falls Prevention

Information for Those at Risk and Carers

This page has information on falls prevention that will be of use to people at risk of falls and those caring for them

Definition of a fall:

a sudden unintentional change in position causing one to land on a lower level

Introduction

If you have had a fall, don’t panic. While falling used to be considered a direct result of ageing and went untreated, we now know that many things can be done to prevent falls. People under the age of 65 tend to fall due to environmental hazards but in the case of older people falls are more often due to a combination of problems.

As we get older our deteriorating vision and hearing, balance, strength and coordination can all contribute to falling while side effects from certain medication also play a role. Additionally, as bone strength diminishes, we are more likely to break a bone such as the hip or wrist as a result of a simple slip, trip, fall or knock. ...more

Contact

For further information on falls prevention services please call: Anya Ryan, Tel: 01753 63 8530

Feedback

We welcome your help in improving this website. Feel free to make suggestions in the comment box on the About page. If you would like a reply, please include your e-mail address.

Documents

The table below lists each document, gives a brief description and has a link to download it or go to the page.

There are three types of document:

- This denotes a PDF document to download (see below for instructions)

web page - This will take you to another page on this site. Use the 'Back' button to get back here.

web site -This will take you to another web site, external to this one. It will open in a new window in front of this one. Close that window to return here.

All downloadable documents are Adobe Acrobat PDF files so you will need the free Acrobat Reader program on your computer. Click the banner opposite to go to the Adobe web site.

Title	Download

Self-Help Guides
*I've Had a Fall - Chart*
A chart, for older people, showing what you should do if you have a fall. Also on this site as a web page.	196KB web page
Staying Steady
A leaflet from Help the Aged giving lots of practical advice on things to do to reduce your risk of having a fall.	132KB
Healthy Bones
A leaflet from Help the Aged that explains about bone health and why it is important. Also gives advice on how to look after your bones, e.g. by eating a healthy diet and having a healthy lifestyle	140KB
Repair With Care Service
This service, by the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, provides help with home repairs for older people.	web site
Falls Prevention Leaflets from Occupational Therapy
Reduce the Risk of Falls
A four page leaflet that looks at all aspects of falls, what causes them and how best to avoid them. Includes practical tips on reducing your risk of having a fall.	104KB
Home Lifestyle
Looks at the whole home environment, highlighting common causes of risk and giving practical advice on how to minimise the risks.	128KB
Travelling
Advice for reducing the risk of falling while travelling, including travelling by bus, things to look out for in accomodation and generally planning ahead.	132KB
Non-Slip Mats
Explains the importance of non-slip mats in baths and showers - for everyone! Gives advice on choosing the correct type for your bath/shower, how to use them correctly and care advice.	88KB
Grab Rails
Advice on fitting and using grab-rails on a bath or shower including the different types, where best to place them and how to use them for best effect.	380KB

Exercises
Please Note: As with any exercise it is advisable to take it take it gently initially and build up gradually. Please speak to your doctor first if you are not used to taking physical exercise or have any queries. If you feel faint, experience chest pain or feel unwell in any way you should stop exercising and contact your doctor.
s.m.i.l.e. Exercise Programme
The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead's SMILE programme is an exercise and activity club for you if you're over 50, 60, 70 or 80.	web site

Reference
*Useful Falls and Fracture Prevention Web Sites*
Provides you with direct links to some very informative sources on falls and fracture prevention.	web page
Assistance Available if You Have had a Fall
Explains what help you can get from Social Services and other departments locally.	web page
Physiotherapists
Explains the role of Physiotherapists, what they can provide and how exercise can help you to avoid having falls.	web page
*Occupational Therapists*
Explains the role of Occupational Therapists and what they can provide to help those at risk from falls.	web page
NICE Guidelines
Recent government ‘think tank’ NICE guidelines on falls. User friendly booklet explaining what the guidelines are about.	72KB

Health Promotion in Berkshire

This page has information on falls prevention that will be of use to people at risk of falls and those caring for them

Definition of a fall:

Introduction