As we age our chance of having a fall increases, but fundamentally no matter who you are and what age you are a fall happens when there is a challenge to our balance or strength that is greater than our ability to stay upright. Falls are usually caused by an interaction of a number of risk factors and the more risk factors you have, the greater the likelihood of falling. Preventing a fall is about recognising your risks and where possible taking action to reduce it. So, what are risk factors for falls? Weak muscles (especially of the legs), poor balance which can cause unsteadiness on your feet, dizziness or light-headedness, blackouts or fainting, foot problems including pain and deformities, memory loss + confusion or difficulty with thinking or problem solving, vision and hearing problems, medication that makes you dizzy or drowsy, drinking too much alcohol (especially with medication) as well as some bladder or bowel conditions. The good thing about this is that most of these factors can be managed and risky situations can be prevented or avoided. Our expert multidisciplinary team of clinicians can help you to take action to reduce / manage many of these risk factors. This can have you feeling more confident to remain active and get you back to living your optimal life.
