How to Reduce Falls At Home.
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It’s so important to know how to reduce falls at home. If you’re reading this post, chances are you or a loved one has previously had one. Falls are not just embarrassing and awkward, they can have a huge impact on your quality of life.
We all fall at some point in our lives. Sadly, when older and frailer, falls are more likely to result in a fracture or head injury.
Falls Kill – Fact!
Falls can kill. Fact! I’m not being alarmist, it’s the stark reality many people are unaware of. At the very least, a fall at home can shatter your confidence or break your hip.
1/3rd of over 65’s and HALF of over 80 will fall this year!
Latest stats from the Government’s Public Health Outcomes Framework (PHOF) 2017 – 2018
- 220,160 emergency hospital admissions caused by falls
- Fall hazards in the home cost the NHS £435 million per year
- Cost of fractures due to old age is £4.4 billion
- Hip fractures alone account for £2bn
- 20% of hip fractures resulted in the need for residential care within a year of injury
- Deaths within one year following hip fractures were between 18% & 33%
These shocking figures need to be reduced. Prevention is better than 100% better than outcome!
How to Reduce Falls at Home: Quick Look.
- Ensure good diet and hydration,
- Make sure your home is well-lit,
- Ensure all footwear fits well,
- Make sure carpets are smooth,
- Ensure rugs are removed or lying flat,
- Make sure electrical cables are away from walkways,
- Reduce or minimise alcohol intake.
- Take care walking around if you have small pets
