NHS service putting their best foot forward for Falls Awareness Week

To mark this year’s Falls Awareness Week, and raise awareness of the risks of falls, the older peoples service in Wakefield is holding an event for patients on Monday 17 June.

Older peoples services in Wakefield are provided by South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust which provides a range of community, mental health and learning disability services to the people of Wakefield Barnsley, Calderdale and Kirklees.

Falls Awareness Week, led by Age UK, is taking place from 17 – 21 June and offers an opportunity for older people, relatives and carers to find out more about falls and how to prevent them.

A variety of healthcare professionals will be at the event to offer advice on boosting bone health and how best to prevent falls. To link in with this year’s ‘healthy feet’ theme, a podiatrist will also speak to patients about the importance of healthy feet in maintaining independence and mobility.

Along with information and advice, the older people’s physiotherapy service will also be running tai chi sessions to increase patients’ strength and balance whilst combining relaxation to improve mental health.

Laura Wharmby, specialist physiotherapist, said, “Falls are a serious problem for older people. Along with physical conditions, falls can have a significant impact on our mental wellbeing. The fear of falling can result in a loss of confidence to carry out daily tasks such as going outdoors, shopping or even moving around in their own homes.

“Falls Awareness Week is a great opportunity to discuss the impact of falling amongst older people. Our event will offer advice and information about the issues associated with falls and foot health and the services available.”

Find out more about fall prevention and support available at www.ageuk.org.uk/fallsweek