Information and Advice

Falling or feeling that you might fall is not an inevitable part of ageing. It's important to recognise that a fall may be a sign of a health issue that needs attention.

A blackout, or a faint, is a sudden loss of consciousness caused by a temporary shortage of blood and oxygen to the brain.

Dizziness can affect people in different ways, such as light-headedness, spinning sensations, or feeling unsteady. But isn’t a normal sign of “getting older”.

Some medications can have side effects that can lead to falls, for example by causing dizziness, drowsiness, or balance problems.

Well-over half of all falls happen in and around homes, and older adults living in care homes are three times more likely to fall than older people living in their own homes. Identifying and addressing hazards within our home environment can significantly reduce the risk.

Staying active is extremely important throughout life, but especially as we age. Muscle weakness, being less flexible and poor balance can all  affect our walking and make us more likely to fall. The good news is, there are effective ways to improve all of these issues.

At any age, clear and healthy vision is vital for maintaining mobility and balance, as well as identifying hazards, navigating obstacles and reducing the risk of falls.

As we age, it's not uncommon to encounter challenges related to memory, cognition, problem-solving, and overall mental sharpness.

Good nutrition and hydration play an important role in maintaining physical and mental function.

Maintaining strong and healthy bones becomes increasingly important as we grow older, because bones naturally become thinner over time.

Taking good care of your feet is very important, as issues like overgrown toenails, foot pain, loss of sensation, and ill-fitting footwear can lead to discomfort, difficulty walking, and reduced stability.

Bladder and bowel problems can increase the risk of falls, but steps can be taken to minimise their impact.

The impact of a fall can be daunting, leading to a loss of confidence, reduced participation in activities, increased anxiety, and ongoing worry.

Sleep patterns change with age. Sleeping in the day, not sleeping at night, and early morning waking are common. Don’t worry too much if you’re struggling to sleep. Instead try using relaxation as a positive action that you can take.