Stand Up to Falls: Simple Steps to Stay on Your Feet in Bristol East
Practical fall prevention tips for older adults in Bristol East. From staying active to home safety, learn how to reduce the risk of falls at home.
A fall might seem like a minor mishap, but for older adults, it can have serious consequences. A stumble can mean more than a bruise; it can lead to broken bones, loss of independence, or even a hospital stay.
Here in Bristol East, we support many older adults who want to stay active, independent, and safe in their own homes. That’s why preventing falls is so important. It’s not just about avoiding accidents – it’s about feeling confident, capable, and in control of your life.
Falls currently cost the NHS over a billion pounds each year and account for more than 4 million hospital bed days. But the good news is that many falls can be prevented with simple changes to our daily routines and living spaces.
Here are our top five tips to reduce the risk of falling:
1. Stay Active
Moving your body is one of the most powerful ways to stay on your feet. Regular physical activity helps strengthen your muscles, improve balance, and boost confidence. You don’t have to run marathons; gentle, consistent movement is enough to make a big difference.
In Bristol East, we’re lucky to have plenty of local groups and green spaces to support active living. Consider joining a Tai Chi class, doing some light gardening, or taking a walk along the River Avon. Carrying groceries, climbing stairs, and even dancing in the kitchen all count as great ways to keep fit.
Choose exercises that feel comfortable for you, and if you’re not sure where to start, speak to your GP. They may be able to refer you to local community classes designed especially for strength and balance.
2. Ensure Your Home’s Safety
Your home should be your sanctuary, not a source of trip hazards. Simple tweaks can make a big difference.
Start by decluttering floors and hallways, securing loose rugs, and tucking away wires. Add non-slip mats in the bathroom, and consider grab rails in key areas like the shower or by the stairs.
Avoid slippers that fall off easily or shoes with worn soles. Good footwear gives you solid footing. And don’t forget the lighting. Make sure all rooms, corridors, and stairways are well-lit, especially at night.
If you have a garden, keep it tidy and well-maintained to avoid uneven surfaces or slippery paths.
3. Stay Well
Good overall health plays a big part in reducing falls. Long-term conditions like arthritis, diabetes, poor eyesight, or high blood pressure can all increase the risk, especially if left unmanaged.
Staying on top of medical appointments is crucial. Let your GP know if you’ve been feeling dizzy, unsteady, or tired. Some medications can cause drowsiness or low blood pressure, so regular reviews are important.
Ask us about local fall prevention workshops in the area.
4. Stay Nourished
A healthy diet doesn’t just keep your heart strong, it helps your bones and muscles too.
Make sure you’re eating a variety of foods, including high-quality protein (like fish, eggs, or beans), complex carbohydrates, and plenty of vitamins and minerals. Calcium and Vitamin D are especially important for bone health, so dairy, leafy greens, and time in the sunshine all help.
Eating well gives you energy, keeps your body strong, and supports faster recovery if you’ve had a fall in the past.
5. Stay Supported
You’re not alone, and there’s no shame in needing a bit of help to stay steady. If you’re concerned about your balance, mobility, or general wellbeing, speak to your GP. They can carry out a health check and refer you to services or equipment that can make daily life easier.
Mobility aids like walking sticks, walkers, or frames can offer stability. Hearing aids can also improve balance, and practical tools like stair lifts, bath seats, or raised toilet frames can make your home safer without compromising your independence.
At Home Instead Bristol East, we can also advise on home adaptations and provide companionship-led support that helps clients stay active and confident at home.
We’re Here to Help
Falls can feel frightening, but they don’t have to define your later life. With the right information, support, and small lifestyle adjustments, many falls are preventable.
If you or a loved one in Bristol East are concerned about fall risks or want more advice on living well at home, our friendly team is here to help. Call us on 0117 3742400 or pop into our friendly office for a cup of tea and a chat.
Together, we can take simple steps that make a lasting difference – because everyone deserves to feel safe, supported, and independent in their own home.
