Preventing a fall

There are ways you can reduce your risk of having a fall, by doing exercise to improve your strength and balance, as well as making simple changes to your home.

Good balance will help you to avoid falls. Increased strength in your legs will help you to get back up onto your feet if you are unlucky and have a trip or slip.

There are a number of self help resources and services across the borough to help you get active and build strength and balance: 

• Dance To Health

A programme for people aged 50 and over who live or work in Dudley Borough or have a Dudley GP. The programme is a fun and sociable way to add physical activity into your life, which can help build strength and balance.

If you are unable to attend a programme DVDs and an online film library are available. For more information visit Dance to Health.

• Healthy Hubs

Across the borough Healthy Hubs have a range of exercise options, from strength and balance exercise classes, to Park Active and Green Fit.

• Let’s Get Moving!

Find out ways to add more movement into your day. You can work at your own pace, in the comfort of your own home or outdoors. Let’s Get Moving!

Dudley Let’s Get Moving falls prevention leaflet

Simple measures around the home to help prevent falls:

• immediately mop up spillages
• remove clutter, trailing wires and frayed carpet
• use non-slip mats and rugs
• use high-wattage light bulbs in lamps and torches so you can see better
• organise your home so you have easy access to things you need and to avoid bumping into things
• get help to do things you’re unable to do safely on your own
• do not walk on slippery floors in socks or tights
• avoid wearing loose-fitting, trailing clothes that might trip you up
• wear well-fitting shoes that are in good condition and support the ankle
• take care of your feet. Trim your toenails regularly and see a GP or chiropodist about any foot problems

Remember: If you are unsure what exercises to do, please consult an appropriate health professional, such as your GP or Physiotherapist, before starting a new exercise programme.

Causes of falls

Anyone can have a fall but older people are more likely to fall especially if they have a long term condition. Falls can be caused by many things, such as your health and wellbeing, activities and surroundings. These include:

• balance problems and weak muscles, especially in the legs,
• vision loss and hearing problems,
• a long term health condition such as heart disease; low blood pressure; stroke,
• medication that may make you feel drowsy or dizzy,
• foot problems, including pain and deformities,
• bladder and bowel conditions,
• memory loss,
• too much alcohol and
• hazards in and around your home.

A fall can have major consequences for the health and wellbeing of older people.  There is help and support available if you are worried about falling or had a fall, contact the Dudley Falls Prevention Team

However, if in a situation where you have concerns about yourself or someone else who has had a fall caused by domestic abuse, please contact Dudley Safe and Sound Partnership for help and support.