Falls are one of the leading causes of injury, loss of independence and avoidable hospital admissions. Many falls can be prevented through small changes at home, staying active, and accessing support early. Although falls can affect all ages, NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) reports: ‘Around a third of people aged 65 and over, and around a half of people aged 80 and over, fall at least once a year’.

With approximately a quarter of Herefordshire residents aged 65 and over according to the latest Census data, there is a major focus on helping people stay active and safe from falls, supporting them to live well and maintain independence.

One of the most effective ways to prevent falls is through regular physical activity, particularly activities that improve strength and balance. Walking, strength training and balance classes help people stay steady on their feet, maintain their independence and reduce their risk of injury as they age.

Throughout Falls Prevention Awareness Week, we, and our partners will be encouraging people of all ages to think about the risks that can lead to falls and what practical action they can take to prevent them. Poor lighting, trip hazards such as frayed carpets, old and or poor fitting slippers, reduced mobility, long-term health conditions, medication side effects, and problems with balance or vision can all increase risks. 

We also provide specialist, innovative prevention approaches mean to help people live well, safely and as independently as possible. This includes new technology, and physical improvements and adaptations, to more than 4,100 homes annually. 

Cllr Carole Gandy, Herefordshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing, said:

“Although anyone can have a fall – and it’s very much older people who are most at risk – there many ways falls can be avoided. We’re aiming to highlight the many things you can do to improve safety at home and out and about. Whether it’s looking after yourself, your family, friends or neighbours, please take a look at the clear steps to take to help avoid unnecessary falls, and enable people to live well, safely and as independently as possible.”

Support available includes:

• Information and guidance and local support available on our Talk Community Directory
• Advice from the NHS 
• The Council’s  housing adaptations service: The Home Improvement Agency (HIA) can help reduce fall risks through minor adaptations to people’s homes, such as grab rails; and major adaptations, e.g. stairlifts, ramps and level-access showers. Council Occupational Therapists undertake assessments, including for funding, provide advice, and refer people to the HIA where appropriate.
• Our Technology Enabled Care (TEC) services can also provide technology designed to help people live independently and safely at home. As well as supporting the ongoing health and well-being of people needing extra support, installing TEC gives reassurance to families and friends who are often living some distance from their relative. Devices include personal alarms, fall detectors and other smart technology, and the team undertakes a specialist assessment including funding eligibility.