Falls

Support is available to help disabled people and older people stay in their own homes and live independently.

Falling is not necessarily part of getting older, not only the frail or infirm fall.

Experts believe that the vast majority of falls could be prevented with some modest changes to our lifestyle and home. Medically speaking, falls are often a warning sign that something isn't quite right but it's often something quiet treatable.

Get up and go tackles common myths about falling. It includes a checklist to help you to decide whether you're at risk. There is plenty of advice on how you can reduce your chances of having a fall by improving your balance, muscle strength and more.

You could direct your friends and family to SAGA - Get up and go, falls guide (opens new window) if you think that they are at risk.

How to reduce your risk of falling

Regular exercise

Doing regular exercises can improve your strength and balance, and reduce your risk of having a fall. Try simple activities such as walking and dancing, or specialist training programmes.

Many community centres and local gyms offer exercise programmes for over 50's. Exercises that can be carried out at home are also available. There's also evidence that taking part in regular tai chi sessions can reduce the risk of falls. Tai chi is a Chinese martial art that places particular emphasis on balance, co-ordination and movement.

To see what's happening near you visit:

Age UK classes (opens new window)

Gateshead's Older People's Assembly, what's on (opens new window)

Go Gateshead (opens new window)

Avoiding falls at home

To reduce the risk of falling in your home:

immediately mop up spillages
remove clutter, trailing wires and frayed carpet
use non-slip mats and rugs
use high-wattage light bulbs in lamps and torches, so you can see clearly
organise your home so that climbing, stretching and bending are kept to a minimum, and to avoid bumping into things
get help to do things that you're unable to do safely on your own
don't walk on slippery floors in socks or tights
don't wear loose-fitting, trailing clothes that might trip you up
wear well-fitting shoes that are in good condition and support the ankle
take care of your feet by trimming your toenails regularly
see a GP or chiropodist about any foot problems

Falls services

GP Services

Your GP is the best person to contact for local services and they can help to answer your concerns about falls.

Concerned about your risk at home

If you feel you are not managing independently at home you can request an assessment of your needs by contacting Adult Social Care Direct on 0191 433 7033.

Home safety check

Use the Tyne and Wear Fire service virtual tool (opens new window) to help identify fall risks in your home in case of a fire.

Disabled facilities grant

The disabled facilities grant can be used towards essential home adaptations which can give disabled people, their families and carers freedom of movement into and around the home and to provide access to essential facilities within the home. The main adaptations facilitate access to the living room, bathroom, bedroom, kitchen plus access and egress to and from the property. For more information please visit our page on equipment to make your home more suitable.