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Falls prevention

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Falls are a common problem and, as we get older, we can be more likely to fall.

Whilst there are many reasons that make falls more likely as we age, there are also many different things we can do to prevent them.

Falls Prevention Management

What help is available?

Community staff in your local area are dedicated to working with people who have fallen or are at risk of falls.

They can offer falls risk screening, support, advice, rehabilitation and specialist further referral when needed.

If you are worried about how you would get help after a fall, consider Telecare. You could get a red button that you simply press to call for help. Find out more about Telecare.

Falls Prevention Management 1

What can I do?

There are many things to look out for which can help to reduce the risk of falls.

Exercise

Exercise is one of the most effective ways to maintain independence and ensure we stay steady on our feet. Anything that challenges our balance and improves muscle strength, particularly in our legs, can help to reduce falls. There are many different exercise activities such as Tai-Chi and dancing, and ordinary day-to-day activities like walking, gardening, housework which are beneficial. You could also consider attending strength and balance classes in your local area (these are sometimes called Otago classes).

Having your eyes checked regularly

This will help to identify any difficulties you may be having with your glasses prescription or other vision problems that may be affecting your balance and co-ordination.

Looking after your feet

Wearing well fitted shoes and slippers can help you to move around safely and comfortably and reduce your risk of falls. Report any problems with your feet to your GP or practice nurse.

Managing your medicines

Certain medicines can make you feel faint or affect your balance. Let your GP know if you ever feel like this after taking medicine or if you are taking several medicines, in case you no longer need them or the dose needs to be changed.

Look after your bones

Keeping active, and eating a well balanced diet that includes plenty of calcium can help keep your bones healthy. Vitamin D is also important.

Check your home for hazards

There are many simple things that can be done to reduce your risk of trips and falls at home - for example, be aware of hazards including poor lighting, loose rugs and trailing cables.

Stay active at home

Strength and balance exercises for older adults.

Important: Preventing falls

NHS Inform Logo

Information on how to reduce your risk of falling at home and what to do if you have a fall.

Preventing falls at NHS inform

More resources

Falls Assistant

Falls Assistant is a falls prevention and self management tool specifically designed and created to help prevent falls, keep people steady on their feet and stay as independent as possible. It enables older people, their carers and family members to assess their own falls risk, and then provides tailored advice that will give them a plan to reduce their future risk of falls and fractures.

Take the Balance Challenge

Age Scotland

Age Scotland provides information and services at a national and local level to enable and support older people when they need it.

Age Scotland has worked with NHS Health Scotland and the National Osteoporosis Society to produce Up and About: Taking positive steps to avoid trips and falls (pdf). It includes information and helpful advice to those most at risk of trips and falls.

More help and advice

Last updated: 14 May 2024