One You Cheshire East Leads Falls Prevention Awareness Week Events Across Cheshire East

Free community events aim to help residents reduce their risk of falls and stay independent.

One You Cheshire East, in partnership with Central Cheshire Integrated Care Partnership, Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, East Cheshire NHS Trust, Steady On Your Feet, Cheshire East Council and Everybody Health and Leisure, is encouraging local residents to take positive steps towards preventing falls by attending a series of free events during Falls Prevention Awareness Week.

Falls are one of the most common causes of injury among older adults and can have a significant impact on confidence, independence, and wellbeing. Across Cheshire East, an estimated 24,000 falls occur each year among people aged 65 and over, with this figure expected to rise to 29,000 annually as the population ages.

To help tackle this growing issue, and link in with this years campaign theme ‘Right Care, Right Time, Right Place’ partners are coming together to deliver a programme of free drop-in events across the campaign week.

Councillor Jill Rhodes, Cheshire East Council’s portfolio holder for adult services, said

“A fall can have a major impact on someone’s confidence and independence, but there are simple steps we can all take to reduce the risk. These free events are a great opportunity to get expert advice, pick up practical tips and learn about the support available locally.

I would strongly encourage residents, their families and carers to come along, ask questions and take advantage of this valuable opportunity to help stay active, safe and independent for longer.”

The events will provide practical advice, demonstrations and information to help people understand falls risk factors and access local support services designed to help them remain active, confident and independent.

Residents can attend without booking and will have the opportunity to speak directly with healthcare professionals and falls prevention specialists, learn simple exercises to improve strength and balance and discover ways to make their homes safer.

Jo Sawicki, Community Falls Lead, East Cheshire NHS Trust shared

“Falls are multifactorial, meaning that there can be many different causes and contributing factors going on at the same time. It’s great to be involved with these events, giving local residents an opportunity to meet with lots of different professionals under one roof and learn about a range of steps they can take to help them stay active and confident for longer.”

These events are open to anyone wanting to reduce their risk of falling, improve their mobility, or learn more about maintaining strength and balance as they age.

Family members, carers, community organisations, and healthcare professionals are also encouraged to attend to learn more about supporting falls prevention in their communities or to support a family member/ friend they are concerned about.

Research shows that falls are often preventable, yet many risk factors can go unnoticed. Local data highlights that falls-related hospital admissions are higher among females than males, ambulance call-outs for falls are more common during the morning, and more than half of adults are not meeting recommended strength activity guidelines.

By making small changes and staying physically active, people can significantly reduce their risk of falling and maintain their independence for longer.

The Falls Prevention Awareness Week events are free to attend, with no booking required.

For more information visit www.oneyoucheshireeast.org/national-falls-awareness-week/ call 0300 123 5026.

Here’s One You Cheshire East Falls Lead, Reece to tell you more.

One You Cheshire East is commissioned by Cheshire East Council and delivered by Everybody Health and Leisure.