There are many reasons why the risk of falling increases with age but falling does not have to be an inevitable result of ageing. A fall can have a huge impact on a person’s life including loss of confidence.
However, the good news is that this doesn’t have to be the case. There are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of falling again.
- The steady on your feet website has lots of useful tips you can follow to reduce your risk of falls and keep you safe and independent. There is also a self assessment tool to assist you in developing an action plan and a home safety check to identify hazards around the home.
- If you struggle to complete the self-assessment on your own ask a family member, carer or friend to assist. There are also agencies who can help (see the useful links page on the steady on your feet website.
- Ask a health or social care professional who you currently see to complete a falls assessment with you. If you are over 65 years of age and you come into contact with a health care professional you should be asked if you have had a fall in the previous 12 months. If you have fallen the member of staff will complete a further assessment and provide you with advice and agree actions to help you reduce your risk of falls.
- See your GP for further advice and support – especially if you have any issues with dizziness, medications or fainting/blacking out.
- You may be referred to the falls team for further assessment: The falls team provides specialist multidisciplinary assessment and interventions to people aged 65 years and over who are still falling despite assessment from another health and social care professional.
Following a referral to the falls team
The falls team will review the referral and recommend the most appropriate action for you and contact you either via telephone call or letter.
If you are offered a further assessment this may be at a clinic venue suitable for you or in your own home. The appointment will:
- Help you to identify what may be causing you to fall
- Agree a treatment plan with you and work with you to reduce your risk of falling
- Help you to be as independent as possible
- Work with other staff members who may already be working with you
Advice and information will be provided on areas which may be affecting your risk of falls such as:
- Medications
- Blood pressure
- Vision and hearing
- Home environment
- Mobility
- Bone health
- Ability to carry out your daily activities
Contact details
Community falls team
Level 1
Friarage Hospital
Northallerton
DL6 1JG
Tel: 01609 764447
Email: [email protected]
We have an answer machine service. Please leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as possible although it may not be the same day.