Falling into Safety: Essential Tips for Falls Prevention Awareness Day

As we approach Falls Prevention Awareness Day this year on Sunday the 22^nd September 2024, it's vital to recognise that falls are not just an inevitable part of aging but rather something we can acknowledge, understand and even prevent.

Each year, people we know - friends, family, or even you, may experience a fall or a trip. Some of these experiences can even lead to serious injuries. Today, we’re dedicating our focus to raising awareness, sharing prevention strategies, and empowering individuals to take proactive steps to protect themselves, their loved ones, and the wider community.

Why Prevention Matters

Preventing falls is not only about reducing immediate injuries but also about enhancing overall quality of life. Effective falls prevention can lead to greater independence, improved health outcomes, and a more active lifestyle. By adopting a proactive approach, we can help maintain our autonomy and hopefully avoid the often-severe consequences of falls.

Our top tips for Falls Prevention

1. Home Safety Check:

Begin with a thorough review of your living environment. Ensure that walkways are clear, remove tripping hazards like loose rugs and clutter, and install grab bars in the bathroom and handrails on stairs. Proper lighting, including night lights, can significantly reduce the risk of falls.

2. Regular Exercise:

Engaging in exercises that improve strength, balance, and flexibility are shown to be very effective in our falls prevention journey. Activities like walking, Tai Chi, and strength training can enhance stability and reduce the likelihood of falls. Consulting an Exercise Physiologist for personalised exercises can be particularly beneficial.

3. Medication Management:

Review your medications with your GP/healthcare provider regularly. Some medications can cause dizziness or impair balance, so it’s crucial to understand their potential side effects and explore alternatives if necessary.

4. Vision and Hearing Check:

Regular eye and ear exams are essential, as impaired vision and hearing can increase fall risk. Correcting vision problems with glasses or contacts and addressing hearing loss can help maintain balance and awareness.

5. Footwear:

Wear shoes that provide good support and have non-slip soles. Avoid walking around in socks or slippers, especially on slippery surfaces.

6. Education and Awareness:

Educate yourself and others about fall risks and prevention strategies. Participating in community programs and workshops on falls prevention can provide valuable knowledge and support to not only yourself, but those around you.

Falls Prevention Awareness Day serves as a key reminder that preventing falls is a collective effort. Take a moment today to assess your environment and habits. Share these prevention tips with friends and family and encourage them to join you in prioritising falls prevention. Together, we can make a difference and help ensure that falls become a thing of the past.

Stay safe, stay informed, and let’s prevent falls — one step at a time.