Introduction

We want to help people reduce their risk of a fall, improve their balance and find out why they might fall. We will give guidance and assessment to help with this.

As you get older, your body might start having health problems that can make you fall. Your muscles, joints, eyesight and hearing might not work as well. This can make falling more likely and some medicines can also make it easier to fall.

There are many other things, including footwear, trip hazards such as loose rugs and trailing wires, which may make falls more likely. Our Somerset Fall Stop leaflet has lots of tips on staying safe from falls and local contact numbers for organisations that can help you.

Falls Risk Assessment Tool

If you fall and break a bone, you may find it difficult living in your own home. So, if you have concerns about your balance or have had a fall, speak with your doctor.

By answering the questions in our Falls Risk Assessment Tool, you can find out what kind of help you need to stay safe and independent.

Other help

You can also contact Somerset Partnership’s Integrated Rehabilitation Service for advice and possible assessment. Somerset Partnership run Balance and Safety classes at local Community Hospitals which you may be able to attend.

Staying active is very important as we get older. You can find information about activities and classes in your area by visiting the Healthy Somerset website, or phone Age UK Somerset on 01823 345626.

If you are concerned about your balance or are becoming less mobile there are Stay Strong Stay Steady community classes available across the county. Or, Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership run a range of classes and activities to suit all abilities.

You can also find useful information about preventing falls on the NHS website or information about keeping your bones healthy and strong from The Royal Osteoporosis Society.