People have been invited to take positive steps towards preventing falls by attending a free event on Thursday (24th) as part of Falls Prevention Awareness Week.
Falls are one of the most common causes of injury among older adults and can have a significant impact on confidence, independence, and well-being.
Across Cheshire East, an estimated 24,000 falls occur each year among people aged 65 and over, with this figure expected to rise to 29,000 annually as the population ages.
To help tackle this growing issue, and link in with this year’s campaign theme “Right Care, Right Time, Right Place”, local government and NHS partners are coming together to deliver a programme of free drop-in events across the campaign week.
Events have been taking place this week and there is one on Thursday from 11am to 1pm at Holmes Chapel Community Centre, Station Road, Holmes Chapel (CW4 8AA).
Information will include: bone health, getting up from the floor, nutrition and hydration, physical activity and lifestyle, foot care, handyperson services and home safety, and blood pressure checks.
Attendees will also receive refreshments and a free goody bag packed with useful information and resources.
The events will provide practical advice, demonstrations and information to help people understand falls risk factors and access local support services designed to help them remain active, confident, and independent.
Residents can attend without booking and will have the opportunity to speak directly with healthcare professionals and falls prevention specialists, learn simple exercises to improve strength and balance and discover ways to make their homes safer.
Coun Jill Rhodes, Cheshire East Council’s portfolio holder for adult social care, said: “A fall can have a major impact on someone’s confidence and independence, but there are simple steps we can all take to reduce the risk. These free events are a great opportunity to get expert advice, pick up practical tips and learn about the support available locally.
“I would strongly encourage residents, their families and carers to come along, ask questions and take advantage of this valuable opportunity to help stay active, safe and independent for longer.”
Research shows that falls are often preventable, yet many risk factors can go unnoticed. Local data highlights that fall-related hospital admissions are higher among females than males, ambulance call-outs for falls are more common during the morning, and more than half of adults are not meeting recommended strength activity guidelines.
For more information visit oneyoucheshireeast.org/national-falls-awareness-week or call 0300 123 5026.
One You Cheshire East, in partnership with Cheshire East Council, Central Cheshire Integrated Care Partnership, Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, East Cheshire NHS Trust, Steady On Your Feet, and Everybody Health and Leisure are organising the campaign.
