Falling, or feeling at risk of falls, is not an inevitable part of getting older. It may be the first sign of a new or worsening health condition (e.g. infection, dehydration, etc) so it is important to tell your GP if you do have a fall.
View Falls AdviceA blackout (or faint) is a sudden loss of consciousness caused by a shortage of blood and oxygen to the brain. This may only last for a second but it could be enough to cause a fall to the ground.
View Blackouts AdviceDizziness can take many forms (e.g. light headedness, spinning, etc.) but it is never normal regardless of age.
View Dizziness AdviceFalls can be caused by almost any medication that acts on the brain or on the circulation because they can impair balance, cause dizziness and make you feel drowsy. If you are on 4 or more medications, this risk increases even further.
View Medication AdviceOver half of all falls happen at home, where we spend much of our time and tend to move around without thinking about our safety.
View Environment AdviceKeeping active is extremely important, particularly as we age. Muscle weakness and poor balance are key risk factors for falls.
View Movement and Exercise AdviceGood eyesight is important for mobility, balance and negotiating obstacles within the environment.
View Vision AdviceAs we get older, problems with memory loss, confusion and problem solving can become more common.
View Memory AdviceGood nutrition is vital for physical and mental function, and losing weight unintentionally is not a normal part of the ageing process.
View Nutrition and Hydration AdviceKeeping our bones as strong as possible is particularly important as we age as they naturally become thinner over time.
View Bone Health AdviceIt is important to take care of your feet because problems like long toe nails, loss of feeling and poor footwear can cause discomfort and make you unsteady.
View Feet AdviceAnyone can have a fall. You are definitely not alone. Falling can be very frightening and may lead to a loss of confidence, restriction of activities, anxiety and worry.
View Fear of Falling AdviceSleep patterns change with age. Sleeping in the day, not sleeping at night, and early morning waking are common. Try not to worry about not sleeping. Instead try using relaxation as positive action that you can take.
View Sleep and Falls AdvicePlease note that the advice contained on this website is not intended to replace the advice of your GP or other health professional