Most of us will have experienced a fall at some point. Having a fall will be nothing more than a bit embarrassing for many, however, a fall can be startling, upsetting and life changing, especially as we get older.

Falls and older people

Falls aren’t an inevitable part of getting older, but can become more common and be harder to recover from. If you, or someone you know, has fallen, you’re not alone:

• 1 in 3 people over the age of 65 experiences a fall at least once a year
• in Scotland, more than 18,000 older people are admitted to hospital after a fall each year
• falls are the most common reason for an ambulance being called to an older person

Causes of falls

Most falls among older people are caused by an interaction of a number of risk factors, with personal risk factors – such as weak muscles, poor balance and walking difficulties – commonly playing a part. Left unmanaged, these can significantly increase your risk of falling.

Falls can also be caused by new, and often temporary, health conditions, including:

• constipation 
• infection
• dehydration 
• acute confusion

For this reason, you should always speak to your GP practice, or another health professional – such as a physiotherapist or occupational therapist, if you’ve had a fall. 

Preventing falls

Falls prevention is about identifying and managing the risks related to your health, wellbeing and environment. This includes:

• keeping active 
• looking after your feet 
• looking after your vision and hearing 
• managing your medication 
• identifying hazards 
• moving around safely 
• eating healthily 

Reducing the impact of a fall

Injuries from falls are very common – there are around 6,000 broken hips in Scotland each year, most of which are caused by a fall. There are, however, things you can do to reduce the harm caused by a fall, including:

• looking after your bones 
• making sure you can summon help quickly if you do have a fall

After a fall

A fall can leave you feeling shaken up and can cause you to become less active and more cautious and withdrawn. You might stop doing things you enjoy, lose confidence in your abilities or feel anxious and on edge.

If you’ve had a fall, talk to your GP practice, or another health professional – such as a physiotherapist or occupational therapist – even if you’re not hurt. Many underlying causes of falls can be treated or corrected.  

Telecare Self-Check online tool

Visit the Telecare Self-Check online tool to find the right support for you in your area. This easy to use online tool allows you to find helpful information on telecare services that could help you live independently at home for longer.