With thousands of people, particularly older people, ending up in hospital because of a fall, this Falls Awareness Week (15-19 September) the NHS in the North West is encouraging people who may be at risk to take simple steps to stay safe, steady and strong.

In 2024 the North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) visited over 90,000 people across the region because of a fall, with more than 63 percent having to go to hospital.

Dr Michael Gregory, Regional Medical Director at NHS England in the North West, said: “It’s true that as we age our chances of having a fall increase but making changes to prevent falls can help you avoid injuries and keep your confidence and independence.

“Falls are not a normal part of growing older and many falls can be prevented. They can lead to serious injury and hospital treatment. Even if a fall does not lead to serious injury, it can cause the person to lose confidence, become withdrawn and feel as if they have lost their independence.

“If you, or somebody you care for, is more at risk of a fall, there are simple steps you can take to make a fall less likely.”

NWAS Medical Director Chris Grant said: “Falls are one of the most common reasons people call 999 for an ambulance. We welcome the opportunity to spread advice and help people remain safe and independent.

“We’re also engaging directly with care homes in the region, helping them understand the services available to support older people and preventing unneeded hospital visits.”

 The NHS top five tips for preventing falls include:

• Keep yourself as active as you can. Try to add strength and balance exercises into your regular routine. You could try the KOKU app
• Stay up to date with your eye tests.
• Stay up to date with your medication reviews.
• Keep your home free from clutter.
• Be prepared for cold weather.

What to do if you have a fall:

• If you have a fall, it’s important to keep calm.
• If you’re not hurt and you feel strong enough to get up, do not get up quickly. Roll onto your hands and knees and look for a stable piece of furniture, such as a chair or bed.
• Hold on to the furniture with both hands to support yourself and, when you feel ready, slowly get up. Sit down and rest for a while before carrying on with your daily activities.
• If you’re hurt or unable to get up, try to get someone’s attention by calling out for help, banging on the wall or floor, or using your personal alarm or security system (if you have one). If possible, crawl to a telephone and dial 999 to ask for an ambulance.
• Try to reach something warm, such as a blanket or dressing gown, to put over you, particularly your legs and feet.
• Stay as comfortable as possible and try to change your position at least once every half an hour or so.

There are many reasons why someone might be more likely to fall including weak muscles or poor balance, health conditions like dementia or the side effects of medication. Trip hazards in the home or cold weather can also increase someone’s chances of falling.

The NSH also recommends discussing any falls you have had with a health care professional and let them know if it is had an impact on your health and wellbeing. They can carry out simple tests to check your balance and signpost you to further support.

Visit the NHS falls prevention page for more information.