Body & Mind
FEAR OF FALLING
Image: Stuart Brill
Craig Hardaker BSc (Hons), Communifit
W
hen goal-setting with my clients, there is always one objective that needs careful consideration: how to reduce the risk of falling. Fear of falling can be a huge concern and individuals may lack the confidence to leave the comfort of their own home. If this a concern for you, then don’t worry - you are not alone as this is a very common problem. One practical way to reduce your fear is to follow these seven steps. Make a plan for getting help if you should fall
Having an action plan is reassuring. Knowing what to do if you were to fall will ease your mind, giving you more confidence. Of course, everything possible should be done to prevent falling, but having an action plan should it happen is essential. Where is the nearest chair? Can I keep a phone on me at all times? Who can I phone if needed? Answer the questions before they need answering. Identify why you are falling and take action to reduce the risk
Is there a common trait as to why you are falling and 110 | Sherborne Times | April 2019
can something be done about it? Is there a particular location, such as an awkward step, or a particular object, such as a low chair? Do you fall at a particular time of the day, early mornings or late nights? This might dictate when to avoid exercise. Maybe there is a certain movement pattern such as turning around or standing too quickly. Identification is key and, if there is a common trait, small changes could reduce the risk of falling. With my clients, hand-rails, a change of shoe style, strengthening exercises and visualisation techniques have all been proven to reduce the risk of falling. Talk to someone about your fears and anxiety
It is all too easy not to discuss fears and anxieties, keeping them locked up inside. Talking to others may help you to overcome these fears. Friends and family can offer you some great advice, and may even offer to help you further with your anxiety by going out with you regularly or taking you to exercise classes.