Campaign helps elderly avoid falls

Thursday 14th June 2012

Older people are getting advice on how to avoid falls and boost their bone health as part of a charity awareness campaign.

Age UK is launching its Fall Awareness Week from June 18 in a bid to improve the bone health of older people and help them avoid trips, slips and falls.

As part of the week, North Tyneside Council will be holding a series of information events on June 18, 19 and 21.

They will include talks from the council's sheltered housing service on how to prevent falls all year around followed by a free exercise session by a sport inclusion officer.

The events will highlight the importance of exercising, following a healthy diet rich in calcium, and getting enough vitamin D through sunshine to help prevent falls and fractures in later life.

Councillor Les Miller, cabinet member for public health and adult social care, said: "Campaigns such as this one are crucial in helping to prevent injuries and improve the well-being of our more elderly residents.

"I would urge as many older people as possible to go along to one of these invaluable sessions."

Charity director general of Age UK Michelle Mitchell said: "As we get older our bone strength naturally deteriorates, which puts us at greater risk of serious injury if we do fall. People attending Falls Awareness Week events will be able to find out more about how to maintain bone health as well as discovering simple strength and balance exercises."

Sessions are taking place at Woodlea Court Tenant's Community Centre, North Shields, on June 18, Jubilee Court, Annitsford, on June 19, and Emmerson Court, Emmerson Place, Shiremoor, and Fernlea, Bowman Court, Dudley, both on June 21. All sessions will be taking place from 2.30pm.

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