Falls Prevention Week 2023

Many people worry about falling as they get older. According to the NHS around one in three adults over 65, and half of people over 80, will have a fall each year. Falling and fear of falling can have a big impact on confidence and wellbeing and the fall can cause serious injury.

Monday 18 September to Friday 25 September is Falls Prevention Week. This year, we are dedicated to supporting older people to improve strength, increase confidence and prevent falls.

Throughout the week, we will be sharing ways you can reduce your risk of a fall. They include doing strength and balance classes, having regular blood pressure checks to prevent and support good management of high blood pressure, testing your sight to help having good vision, healthy eating and reducing alcohol consumption. We will also cover home hazards and how to avoid trips and falls inside and outside the home.

We also want people to know that's it's OK to talk about falling and any fear of falling; whether you have had a fall or just about worried about it. Starting a conversation can be hard, but there are people who understand these things and can help.

There are lots of organisations in the borough who are offering falls prevention classes and other ways to get active:

• View Age UK Richmond for more information on classes in the area
• Full of Life Fair: The fair is also a chance to learn more about how you can reduce your risk of falling and identify new ways to become more active. Or why not find something local and try out something new at one of our Full of Life Funded events in the borough

For more information, you can visit the Preventing falls webpage to find things going on in your area.

If you or someone you know has had a fall or is very unsteady you can refer yourself to the Richmond Falls and Bone Health Service by calling 020 86145397.