Preventing falls and trips

As we get older, the risk of having a trip or a slip increases which can lead to injuries, a visit to A&E and maybe a stay in hospital. Falling can also contribute to a loss of confidence and independence.

Around a third of people aged 65 and over in Derbyshire will have a trip or a fall each year and this rises to half of all people aged 80 and over. However, falling over isn’t an inevitable part of getting older and many falls are preventable by doing some simple things. Everyone can benefit from living a healthy, happy, ageing lifestyle, even if they’ve never had a fall before.

If you’re over the age of 65, or who have loved ones who are, there are things you can do to help:

• Keep active – simple strength and balance exercises can help prevent falls. Age UK offer ‘Strictly No Falling’ classes to people across Derby and Derbyshire who are over the age of 65 to help them to keep active and there are also online exercise videos

• Wearing sturdy footwear with a good grip can greatly reduce the risk of falling, especially outdoors in the winter months

• Wear correct fitting slippers and throw out slippers that don’t fit properly

Your local pharmacy should always be your first choice for minor ailments and conditions

If you or your family become unwell, you may not always need to see a doctor or get a prescription.

Your local pharmacy should always be your first choice for help with minor ailments and conditions such as aches and pains, coughs, colds, rashes and allergies. Pharmacists are professionally trained to help you with minor illnesses and can ensure you get the right help from a doctor if needed.

Local pharmacies offer seven-day opening and late hours for convenience and you don’t need to make an appointment.

Feeling unwell?

Everyone can benefit from living a healthy, happy, ageing lifestyle, even if they’ve never had a fall before.

• Keep the home safe - watch out for trip hazards and remove them or secure them where possible

• Discuss any worries or concerns about your health with your GP and let them know about any falls or feeling dizzy

• Have your eyes checked regularly and keep glasses clean

For more information about how you can help yourself or your loved ones to prevent falling and what services are available to you, as well as exercise classes, search Derbyshire Strictly No Falling online or contact Age UK Derby and Derbyshire on 01773 766922.