Home safety officers with Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council are urging older residents to take some simple steps to avoid falls and potentially serious injuries.
As part of Falls Prevention Awareness Week 2024 (September 23-27), ABC Council and the Public Health Agency are encouraging those aged over 65, to request a free home safety assessment which will help to identify factors that can lead to increased risk of falls, and what action can be taken to reduce this risk.
The Chief Medical Officer’s, Health Intelligence briefing 2024 highlighted that falls were the major single cause of unintentional deaths, accounting for 2,279 deaths in Northern Ireland between 2011 and 2020.
Falls are also the single biggest cause of accidental injuries in the home and 80% of hospital admissions due to accidents among over 65s are as a result of a fall.
There are some simple, small changes and tips that can make all the difference in avoiding falls, like the ideas listed below:
- Get up from your chair or bed slowly to avoid dizziness and use a walking aid if provided.
- Keep your stairs clutter free – don’t leave items lying on the stairs that could cause a trip or fall.
- Ensure your home is well lit, and always put lights on at night, especially when getting up during the night.
- Remove all loose and worn mats.
- Avoid trailing leads and wires.
- Wear proper shoes or slippers, with laces or velcro fasteners.
- Install grab bars in the bathroom or handrails on stairs for additional support.
The Home Safety Officer can offer information and advice on ways to avoid accidents in the home. Referrals can be made to other agencies to assist you, including NI Fire and Rescue Service who can fit free smoke alarms, the Housing Executive for housing issues and repairs, or an Occupational Therapist if at risk from falls.
For more information, or to book a home safety check, contact the Home Safety Officer on 0330 0561 011 or email
As part of Positive Ageing Month, a series of information events and activities will be held across the Borough in October. For more information visit www.armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk/pam email or call Stephanie on 07825 010 630.
