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Falls in older people
Falls are common accidents for older people. Around one in three people aged 65 years and older, and living in the community, will fall at least once this year.
In Australia, falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among people aged 65 years and older, accounting for 40 per cent of all injury deaths. Falls can also result in serious injuries that cause loss of mobility and independence.
What can I do about preventing falls?
There are a number of steps older people can take to decrease their risk of having a fall.
- Take regular exercise, such as walking for at least 10 minutes every day.
- Eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet, with plenty of calcium
- Get your general practitioner to review all the medicines you are taking. Make sure you include the medicines you buy over the counter, such as pain killers, vitamins and herbal remedies.
- See your general practitioner for a check-up if you feel dizzy or unsteady on your feet when you stand up or walk.
- Get your eyes checked if you have trouble seeing things or if you have other problems with your eyes.
- Make sure your home and surroundings are safe. Try and remove or fix things that might cause you to trip or slip over.
- Wear well fitting shoes with low heels and non-slip soles.
Where can I get more information?
Talk to your general practitioner or contact your local Community Health Centre. You will find the number in the Health Services listing in the information pages at the front of your phone book.
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