Home Local News Helping people to avoid a fall in Lancaster

Helping people to avoid a fall in Lancaster

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Lancashire County Council is providing funding for an advice and support service to help reduce the chance of people being injured in a fall.

The free hour-long ‘Steady On!’ sessions include practical tips on how to prevent falls, including advice about equipment or adaptions to aid with preventing incidents at home. The sessions also include information on local services to help you stay well over winter.

The service is being delivered in partnership with the NHS.

The sessions are aimed at people who are concerned about falling, as well as people who’ve had a fall and would like support to reduce the risk of having another one.

This new ‘Steady On!’ service started on Wednesday 1 May.

County Councillor Azhar Ali, Cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “Falls are a common cause of injury and can happen to anyone, but older people are more vulnerable and likely to fall. The factors that increase the risk of falls are problems with footwear, lighting, activity, medication and eyesight.

“We want people to be able to get around safely and remain independent. It’s important that people know to watch out for the risks and how they can minimise their chances of getting injured.

“If you think you’d benefit from this support, or you have a friend or relative who would, please contact us to find out more.”

In Lancaster, between 2015 and 2030, the number of people aged 65 years and over predicted to have a fall is projected to increase by an average of 33%. During this period, hospital admissions as a result of a fall are projected to increase by 39%.

More information about ‘Steady On!’ is available by calling the team on 01524 519553.

Alternatively visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/health

If you’ve had a fall as a result of a dizzy spell or blacking out, contact your GP as this will need further investigation.

More information is available from the NHS about preventing falls, including advice about the common causes of falls. Find out more online at www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Falls

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