In Ireland 1 out of 3 older people fall every year. Some falls can have devastating consequences, but even a fall with no injury can make someone nervous of walking, or going outside.

Yet many falls can be prevented.

How to prevent falls

  • Keep moving. Exercising regularly will help you stay flexible and strong. Sometimes people who are nervous of falling, will avoid exercise/activity to avoid falling. Instead this can make you more likely to fall. Staying active will keep you safer on your feet.
  • Balance and strengthening exercises. Exercises that focus on improving your balance and building muscle can reduce your risk of falls and fractures. These programmes should be tailored to you and your level of ability. See a Chartered Physiotherapist to be assessed for a falls prevention exercise program.
  • Wear well fitting, comfortable shoes. Avoid soft slippers, or shoes with smooth soles.
  • Fallproof your home. Remove clutter, loose wiring and loose mats. Keep high traffic areas clear. Make sure living areas are well lit.
  • Look after your eyesight. If you feel that there is any change, have a sight test. If you do have glasses make sure they are kept clean, and wear them as indicated.
  • If you take medication that makes you sleepy or dizzy make sure you discuss it with your GP or pharmacist.
  • And lastly if you do start to have recurrent or unexplained falls, always discuss them with your GP.

One of our Specialist Vestibular Chartered Physiotherapists can carry out a falls prevention assessment for you and start you on a tailor-made falls prevention home exercise programme and progress it as you improve to your optimal.

falls prevention

Remember

If you are interested in booking an appointment with one of our Chartered Physiotherapists that specialise in Falls prevention OR simply need some guidance, then please give us a call on 021 4633455 or book online below.

We hope you enjoyed this blog by Louise O’Hare, Chartered Physiotherapist

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This blog is provided for information purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Seek the advice of your doctor with any queries regarding a medical condition.