It’s horrifying to know that between 10-15% of all 999 calls are due to falls, and falls prevention is now a priority. Recovering from a fall can take a long time, and we know through our own experiences at Home & Company that regaining full health and confidence often doesn’t happen. There are many ways you can reduce your risk of having a fall, including making simple changes to your home and doing exercises to improve strength and balance. Discuss any falls you’ve had with your GP and say if it’s had an impact on your health and wellbeing. Some people feel reluctant to talk to their GP about a fall because it doesn’t seem important enough, but in fact GPs take falls prevention seriously. Your GP can carry out some simple balance tests to check whether you’re at an increased risk of falling in the future. They can also refer you to a plethora of useful local classes and services. The Hop 50 in Hove has lots of brilliant classes. Here are some top tips for preventing falls at home:
- Mop up spillages immediately
- Remove clutter, trailing wires and frayed carpets and rugs
- Use non-slip mats and rugs
- Use high-wattage light bulbs in lamps
- Get help to do things that you’re unable to do safely alone
- Don’t walk on slippery floors in socks or tights
- Don’t wear trailing clothes that might trip you up
- Take care of your feet by keeping your toenails trimmed
It might be that vision loss is increasing your risk of having a fall. Getting out to eyesight tests can be hard, especially as winter sets in, so it’s great to know there are options for having these done in the comfort of your own home. Jim Gallanders is the director and lead optician of the Sussex branch of Care Opticians. They are a well-established, Sussex-based Optician company specialising in FREE eye tests and spectacle fittings at home. They carry a large range of spectacles from budget to designer which are delivered personally to your home. They also provide a free aftercare service with repairs and adjustments handled within 48 hours. Over 60’s, people with disabilities, those with a diagnosis of diabetes or glaucoma and those receiving benefits are eligible to a FREE NHS eye test. Care Opticians can provide FREE NHS spectacles for people who receive Guaranteed Pension Credit or Income Support. For more information or to book a home visit do give them a call on 01273 220588.