RoSPA Press Office : Press Release

July 15, 2005
RoSPA BACKS NATIONAL FALLS AWARENESS DAY

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents said thousands of elderly people could avoid a visit to hospital if they followed tips being given as part of National Falls Awareness Day on Tuesday (July 19).

The day is the brainchild of Help the Aged and is being staged because more than 370,000 people aged 65 and over go to hospital each year in the UK after a fall at home. Complications arising from falls on stairs lead to an estimated 1,000 deaths a year.

RoSPA said people should:

• Make sure their stairs are well lit and have handrails – one on each side is a good idea.
• Replace worn carpets and not use loose mats and rugs
• Wear suitable shoes
• Remove clutter from floors and stairs so that there is less chance of tripping
• Use stepladders instead of climbing on chairs when trying to reach things – and store everyday items in easy-to-reach places

Sarah Colles, RoSPA Home Safety Adviser, said; “If people follow simple advice such as this, they will be much less likely to have a fall. They can help themselves by keeping fit and active through gardening, walking or even attending exercise classes.

“Falls are particularly dangerous for the elderly and can lead to long spells in hospital. One fall can lead to a lack of confidence and then a worse quality of life. Falls can be prevented if people take more care and listen to the messages of Falls Awareness Day which RoSPA fully supports.”

More than 250 events are being staged around the country including exercise programmes, walks, home checks and workshops.

More details about Falls Awareness Day can be found at www.helptheaged.org.uk/fallsday