Expert Reveals Fall Prevention Tips For Elderly at Home After New Shocking Statistics

One in three over 65s have at least one fall a year, however the risk of falls increases to one in two for people aged over 80 and costs the NHS £350M per year! 

Taking Care Personal Alarms, have conducted a report on the rise in the ageing population and the strain elderly falls are having on healthcare. To try and prevent falls in the elderly, the report has offered some insight on where the problem may lie and some expert tips on how we can prevent falls at home. 

Data from TakingCare’s Falls Survey also found that:

• 74 per cent of falls occurred inside the home
• 13 per cent of falls occurred out and about (e.g. down the shops)
• 12 per cent of falls occurred in the garden

Elderly Care Expert, Louise Yasities from TakingCare Personal Alarms has prepared a series of falls prevention tips for elderly people:

1. Moving about more strengthens your legs and makes you less prone to falling.
2. Use the stairs frequently if able to do so.
3. Slowly and repeatedly rise to a standing position from a chair.
4. If you have arthritis, you may find that trainers or well-cushioned shoes are more comfortable than ordinary shoes and offer better support. But make sure the soles aren’t too thick, as you could feel unsteady if you can’t feel the floor beneath your feet.  
5. Wear shoes that fit well, for example, high-sided shoes with low heels and thin soles with a strong grip are a good choice.
6. Avoid wearing sandals and shoes with high heels.
7. Wear slippers with a good grip and that fasten up. Loose or worn-out slippers may cause you to trip.
8. Make sure your trousers or skirts don’t trail on the ground.
9. Always wear shoes or slippers. To avoid slips, don’t walk indoors in bare feet, socks or tights.