Winter weather has arrived, and with it comes a surge in 999 calls from older and vulnerable people who have fallen and cannot get back up. We have endorsed a new guidance document from the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives (AACE) on what a person should do if they fall, and some simple steps they can take to prevent falling.
One in three people over 65 who live at home will fall at least once this year; for those over 80, the risk rises to one in two.
Professor Jugdeep Dhesi, President of the BGS, said:
A fall doesn’t have to mean the beginning of the end of independent living. Many older people recover quickly if they avoid a ‘long lie’ on the floor and get prompt help.
Simple strength and balance exercises twice a week, good footwear, removing trip hazards in the home, and a review with your GP can dramatically cut your risk."
