Every 5 hours an older person is killed as a result of falling in the home. A fall at home can lead to loss of confidence and independence so the aim of Falls Week is to raise awareness and provide information for the elderly and their carers in order to prevent falls and subsequently broken hips. The main messages in avoiding falls are:-

• Keep physically active
• Wear thin soled shoes or flat shoes
• Be careful when getting up quickly to avoid dizziness

A number of local authorities in the county have formed a partnership with the Health Authority to run Hertfordshire’s first “Falls Week.” This supports the department of Trade and Industry’s campaign “Avoiding slips, trips and broken hips.”

30,000 leaflets are being distributed across Hertfordshire targeting the elderly. In partnership with the Health Education Authority, materials have been provided by the Department of Trade and Industry’s 3 year national campaign – “Avoiding slips, trips and broken hips.”

…………………..Head of Environmental Health for …………says :-“Falls Week has developed from the DTI campaign and has enabled local professionals to co-ordinate a county-wide initiative on this major issue. Many accidents can be prevented by simple, practical actions that can reduce risk and save lives.”

…………………….the Accident and Emergency Consultant at …………hospital says:- “A & E departments are pleased to support Hertfordshire Falls Week. Winter is approaching and any initiative planned to reduce the number of elderly people coming into A & E after a fall is welcomed.”

The Hertfordshire Accident Prevention Group recognises the value of initiatives such as this and hope it will lead to a decrease in elderly attending local hospitals as a result of a fall.

For more information or copies of leaflets please contact the Health Promotion Officer on………………………………………..