Falls Prevention Week 2024

Monday 23 September to Friday 27 September is Falls Prevention Week. This year, we want people to know that's it's OK to talk about falling or any fear of falling. Starting a conversation can be hard, but there are people who can help you understand about the risks of falling and how to prevent falls.

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 our confidence and wellbeing and potentially cause serious injury. But, there is plenty of resource available locally to support older people to improve strength, increase confidence and prevent falls.

There are lots of organisations in the borough who are offering falls prevention classes, strength and balance classes, and other ways to get active. Visit Age UK Richmond for more information on classes in your area.

Regular exercise keeps your body active, helps with balance and posture, strengthens muscles, and supports good physical and mental health. Visit our Richmond Moves campaign, where you can discover local resources and exciting activities to help you on your journey to moving more safely and in your own way, and sign up to free email updates tailored to you. 

You can also join us at the Full of Life Fair on Friday 27 September to learn more about how you can reduce your risk of falling and find new ways to be more active. You’ll also be able to access information about healthy eating and receive a free blood pressure check and advice. Or why not try out something new and more local to you at one of our Full of Life community events in the borough during October?

There is also lots of information available on ways you can help to reduce your risk of a fall.

Some tips include:

• Get regular blood pressure checks to make sure your blood pressure stays within healthy levels and help prevent dizziness
• Have regular eye tests to maintain clear vision
• Eat and drink regularly making to prevent you feeling dizzy or weak
• Drinking less alcohol can help keep you steady on your feet
• Think about making small changes to your home to reduces your risk of trips and slips (e.g. remove trailing leads, make sure rugs are fixed)
• Be aware of your surroundings, take strong steady steps and try not to rush

Find out more information about preventing falls.

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 8614 5397.