Take steps to stay steady with new falls prevention website

A website has been launched to help Cheshire West and Chester residents take steps to stay steady on their feet.

The Steady On Your Feet website provides practical advice and personal plans to help people improve their strength and balance to stay healthy and independent for longer.

Cheshire West and Chester Council, Cheshire East Council and NHS Cheshire and Merseyside have launched the new website to coincide with this year’s national Falls Prevention Week, from 16 to 20 September.

Cllr Lisa Denson, Cheshire West and Chester Council’s Cabinet Member for A Fairer Future (Poverty, Public Health and Mental Health), said:

“People aged over 65 have a higher risk of falling.

“A fall is nothing when you’re little but can be much more serious when you’re over 65. This is because it can lead to you losing your confidence and not being as active. Your health could deteriorate, and this can lead to a loss of independence and socialising with friends and family.

“The good news is that you can do plenty of things to help you maintain your strength and balance to avoid falling, and it’s never too late to start.”

Borough residents and their families can use Steady On Your Feet to complete a self-assessment and get a personal fall prevention plan.

They can also use the website to check for any home hazards, find out practical advice and access strength and balance activity videos, as well as find out about exercise classes in the area.

Key steps to help maintain your strength and balance and prevent falls:

• Engage in activities that improve balance, strength, and flexibility. Consider joining a local exercise class or walking group.
• Identify potential hazards in and around your home, such as loose rugs, cluttered pathways, and poor lighting. Make necessary adjustments to improve your living environment.
• Discuss any medications you are taking with your healthcare provider. Certain medications can cause dizziness or balance problems.
• Ensure your vision is up to date. Regular eye tests can help identify and address any vision issues that may contribute to falls.
• Eat a balanced diet that provides essential nutrients that support bone health and overall well-being.
• Dehydration can lead to dizziness and falls. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• If you are concerned about your risk of falls, talk to your healthcare provider or a falls prevention specialist.

Cllr Denson said:

“We want residents of Cheshire West and Chester to be resilient people, living their best lives.

“Launching this website is one of the ways we can help people to be healthy, happy and independent for longer.”

For more information visit: 

https://cheshire.steadyonyourfeet.org.

Anyone who is not online can visit one of the borough’s libraries for support to access the website.