Ten Positive Steps to Avoid Slips Trips and

Ten Positive Steps to Avoid Slips, Trips and Falls This resource has been developed through joint improvement work in falls prevention between NHS Ayrshire & Arran and South Ayrshire Council. Project Lead: Dr Heather Hall, NHS Ayrshire & Arran Falls Lead Contributors: Vera Kidd (South Ayrshire Council Sheltered Housing), Sharon Hodge, Rebekah Wilson, Georgie Garrick (NHS Ayrshire & Arran Falls Leads) May 2011 1

Falls n n n A fall can happen anytime, anywhere and to anyone The reasons why someone has a fall can be numerous Most falls happen at home. May 2011 2

Good news! Falls can be prevented n n Most falls are preventable It is vital that you take some precautions when carrying out daily activities and moving around. May 2011 3

Step 1: Medications n n Medication and its side effects may cause falls Talk to your doctor about possible side effects so you know what might be expected. May 2011 4

Step 2: Be health aware have regular health checks n n n Have your eyes tested regularly Take your annual free flu jag Don’t ignore a fall report it to your doctor or nurse. May 2011 5

Step 2: Be health aware n May 2011 Certain health conditions such as arthritis, low blood pressure, stroke, continence or dizziness can all affect balance and may lead to falls. 6

Step 3: Stay active! Weak muscles and poor balance can be helped by regular physical activity such as: n Keep fit n Walking n Dancing n Gardening n Housework May 2011 7

Step 4: Safe footwear! Painful or swollen feet make walking difficult! n See a Podiatrist or doctor if your feet are painful, swollen or have pins and needles n Wear comfortable, firm, flat shoes with a non slip sole n Do not wear poorly fitting slippers or walk in socks. May 2011 8

Step 5: Use a walking aid or assistive device n To help maintain mobility and balance n Get advice from your Physiotherapist or Occupational Therapist concerning the right type, height and use of aids n Maintain walking aids & equipment in good working order. May 2011 9

Step 6: Be mindful of your environment! n n n Don’t leave things lying around to trip over e. g. loose rugs, cables Ensure you have adequate lighting Ensure you have hand rails if you need them in the bathroom Rearrange your furniture so you can move around your home with ease and safety Avoid trailing clothes. May 2011 10

Step 6: Be mindful of your environment! n n n Wipe up any spills on the floor immediately to prevent slipping Don’t rush to answer the door or phone Have everything within reach so you don’t need to climb Try to keep the house warm Get up slowly from chairs and beds Make sure bed and chair height are suitable for your ease and safety. May 2011 11

Step 7: Eat a healthy diet Eating a varied and balanced diet is important for everyone. It helps to make eating more enjoyable and will help you to stay healthy and active. May 2011 12

Step 7: Eat a healthy diet This should include: n Fibre n Iron-rich foods n Foods and drinks rich in vitamin C n Calcium-rich foods n Limit fat and sugar intake n May 2011 This should also include plenty of fluids (6 -8 glasses per day) 13

Step 8: Plan for a fall! Get organised! n Keep an easy to read list of emergency phone numbers beside your phone n Consider a personal alarm - so you can summon help at the touch of a button. May 2011 14

Step 9: What to do if you have a fall Don’t panic n If you are hurt or unable to get up, wait for help n Try to summon help n Move to a soft surface n Keep warm n Keep moving n May 2011 15

Step 10: Out and about plan for winter n n May 2011 Restock your winter medicine cabinet Get your repeat prescriptions on time Know your doctor’s opening times Be aware when you are out and about (icy pavements, surface grit, uneven ground). 16

Step 10: Out and about in the garden n n May 2011 Take care when walking on wet grass and uneven surfaces in the garden Ensure all paths and steps are level, stable and free from moss Store your tools (hose, rakes) safely and securely when not in use Use a kneeling stool with raised handles while weeding; rise slowly afterwards. 17

Step 10: Out and about – in town n n n Take all the time you need - plan ahead, don’t rush Avoid carrying bags. Free hands will help you to maintain your balance Take care getting on and off buses. Wait until the bus has stopped before standing Be an alert walker - watch for traffic, bicycles and other pedestrians Try not to let yourself get too tired. Physical exhaustion can lead to falls Leave an outside light on when returning home at night. May 2011 18

Great gifts and bright ideas n n n n n Touch lamps Mobile phone Sensor lights Personal alarm and a whistle New slippers Magnifying glass Non-slip mat Glasses rope Remote control organiser/accessory bag May 2011 19

Let’s take action Positive steps … … prevent falls! May 2011 20