People in Suffolk and north east Essex are being urged to take simple steps to help keep them safe from falls this winter.
Falls and fractures are a common and serious health issue, with a third of people aged over 65 and half of those aged 80 and above falling at least once a year in the UK.
To try and reduce those numbers, Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board is urging people to “think more squirrel” and get prepared for the winter. They have developed the easy-to-remember acronym FALLS to help people forward plan. The letters stand for:
- Friendly – check on older family, friends and neighbours
- Alarm – keep your personal alarm or mobile with you at all times. Make sure it is charged and ready to use in case of an emergency.
- Lively – keep active to increase your strength and balance and reduce your risk of falling.
- Look – Check your walking aids and remove obstacles from walkways inside your home.
- Slippers and shoes – wear appropriate footwear and make sure slippers fit well.
“A fall can be traumatic for anyone, but the consequences can be severe for older people,” said Debbie Dyer, clinical lead for ageing well and anticipatory care at the North East Essex Health and Wellbeing Alliance.
“People can improve their chances of avoiding a fall by taking these simple actions. We’d encourage everyone to think FALLS this autumn and winter.”
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