ALMOST one-third of those over the age of 65 experience a fall each year – but falls can be prevented.
Ipswich seniors raised awareness about falls prevention – and learning how to stay on their feet – during the April Falls Day campaign run by Carinity.
The campaign aimed to reduce harm from falls, particularly for seniors who are the most at risk of having a fall.
Carinity Colthup Manor aged care residents and Carinity Home Care Ipswich clients have learned how to reduce incidences of a fall.
They took part in a free falls risk assessment, and many enjoyed supervised activities with trained fitness professionals.
Regular exercise improves strength and balance and can reduce the chance of a fall by 23%.
Carinity Home Care Ipswich’s Maryanne Riek said the April Falls Day initiative aligned with national and international education campaigns about falls prevention.
“Around half of falls occur in and around the home – and can have devastating complications for the victim,” she said.
“In Australia, falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths, accounting for 37% of all deaths.
“Falls are also the main cause of injuries which lead to hospitalisation.”
Every day in Queensland one person will die, 36 people will be admitted to hospital, and 10 people will have hip fractures, as a result of a fall.
Many people think falls are a normal part of life and aging, but they’re not. Falls can be prevented by reducing the risk.
Tips to stay upright
- Regular exercise most days can help maintain balance, muscle strength, flexibility and reduce someone’s risk of a fall.
- Have the best possible lighting in your home and use lights when you get up at night.
- Have your eyes checked once a year and keep eye-glasses clean.
- Take care not to rush to limit the chances of slipping and tripping – both inside and outside the home.
- Wear well-fitting, flat shoes with non-slip soles and use non-slip mats or floor treatments. Remove tripping hazards around the home and garden and consider handrails for the bathroom, toilet and at front and back doors.
- Keep in daily contact with someone who can organise help if you need it, especially in an emergency.
- Be aware of how medicine affects them and discuss possible side-effects with their doctor or pharmacist.
