Managing Risk of Falls at Home
Please click on the icons in the picture below to find out more about equipment that might help you at home.
Managing Risk of Falls at Home
If you or someone you know has started having falls, it is advisable to contact your GP practice so that they can investigate if there is any medical reason behind the falls, they can also refer you to other services that can provide practical help.
There are also walking aids to support people and minimise risk of falling.
Walking Sticks and Crutches
There are different types of walking sticks and crutches available on the market.
They vary in the grip, how they contact the floor and if they are to be used in one or both hands.
They can provide extra support to people who have difficulty maintaining balance while walking or standing.
It is important to have any walking aid set to the correct height for the user to avoid more instability or injury.
Find out more about walking sticks and crutches from the Living Made Easy website:
Living Made Easy: Crutches.
Living Made Easy: Walking sticks.
Walking Frames
Zimmer frames are used by people who need a lot of support when they walk and provide a very stable base for someone to hold onto when they take a step.
They are usually height adjustable and come in various widths.
They sometimes have wheels on the front to assist people who struggle to pick the whole frame up to move it.
They can also have a caddy attached to them to enable the person using the frame to transport items with them.
It is important to have the frame set at the correct height for the user to provide maximum support.
Find out more about walking frames from the Living Made Easy website:
Living Made Easy: Walking frames.
City Wide Care Alarm
This is an emergency care alarm service to allow people ask for help when in difficulty. For example, if they fall and are unable to get back up.
Usually, this is a portable alarm button that can be worn in different ways such as on the wrist or around the neck.
Some may detect a fall automatically whereas some require the person to press a button.
For more information and a referral visit the City Wide Care Alarms website:
Flooring
It is important to take flooring into consideration as it plays an important role in allowing you to move around your property. Here are some ideas to help you pick the right flooring.
Strong patterns such as stripes and zigzags can be perceived as moving objects, and highly contrasting floor tones can look like steps or holes, leading to confusion.
Consider slip resistant flooring such as carpets particularly if the user is at risk of falls.
Footwear
Non-slip house shoes: Usually, these indoor shoes/slippers are designed with grippy outsoles. They can significantly reduce the risk of slipping and loss of balance.
Shoes without laces: Particularly for people who struggle to bend and/or tie their shoes, shoes without laces can be the best option.
Find out more about footware from the Living Made Easy website:
Living Made Easy: Slippers and bootees.
Living Made Easy: Insoles, extensions and laces.
Living Made Easy: Shoes, boots and sandals.
If you believe you are at risk of falling or require a walking aid and you are uncertain of which of these is suitable for you, contact your GP so that you can be signposted to the right services.
If you still have difficulties you can request an Occupational therapy assessment by filling in an online referral form Equipment and adaptations for your home | Sheffield City Council
Disclaimer: the information included in the Sheffield Directory has been provided by the organisations listed, and although reasonable efforts have been made to ensure the information’s accuracy, Sheffield City Council does not accept responsibility or liability for any inaccuracies, errors or omissions. Sheffield City Council cannot be held be responsible for any use of the information contained in or linked from the Directory. Users of the Directory are advised to check any information offered to their own satisfaction before relying upon it and, prior to making a purchase, it is suggested that those using the Directory refer to Living Made Easy.