Risk of falling
You may notice that walking doesn’t come as naturally as it used to. You sometimes feel unsteady whilst walking, have stumbled on occasion, or find it difficult to keep your balance. You may also have become more cautious when climbing stairs, getting up or walking outdoors.
An increased risk of falling is more common than people realise, particularly in later life. Fortunately, it is often possible to identify the factors that increase the risk of falling and what you can do to move more steadily and safely.
What is it?
An (increased) risk of falling is when someone’s likelihood of falling is higher than normal. This does not always mean that you have already fallen. Sometimes you may simply notice that your balance feels less stable or that walking is more difficult.
A fall can have serious consequences for your independence and confidence in moving around. That is why it is important to take signs of an increased risk of falling seriously.
Causes
An increased risk of falling is usually caused by several factors at the same time.
Possible causes include:
- reduced muscle strength;
- problems with balance or stability;
- reduced sensation in the feet;
- foot problems or pain whilst walking;
- unsafe or unstable footwear;
- impaired vision;
- unsafe or poorly lit surroundings;
- certain medicines;
- reduced mobility or unsteadiness when walking.
What do you notice?
There are various ways in which you may notice an increased risk of falling. Sometimes symptoms develop gradually.
You may notice that:
- if you feel unsteady whilst walking;
- you are more likely to trip or stumble;
- your balance feels less stable;
- standing up or turning takes more effort;
- you have become more careful when exercising;
- you are afraid of falling;
- you have less confidence in your body whilst walking.
The impact of a healthy lifestyle and your mental health
A healthy lifestyle can influence the risk of falling. Regular exercise helps to maintain muscle strength, balance and stability. Sleep, a healthy diet and sufficient energy are also important. Fatigue, a lack of exercise, muscle weakness or dizziness can increase the risk of tripping or falling. Good footwear and a safe environment also help to reduce the risk of falling.
Mental health plays a major role. Fear of falling can cause you to move less. As a result, your muscles may weaken and your balance may deteriorate further. Stress or uncertainty can also affect the way you walk and move.
Our lifestyle coaches can help you improve your diet, exercise and sleep patterns. Our psychologists can provide support when a fear of falling or a feeling of unsteadiness affects daily life.
What can you do yourself?
There is a lot you can do yourself to reduce the risk of falling. Even small changes can help you move more safely and steadily.
To reduce the risk of falling, you can:
- keep exercising regularly;
- wear good shoes with sufficient support;
- remove loose rugs or obstacles in the home;
- get plenty of rest when feeling tired;
- use aids where necessary;
- have your feet checked regularly;
- Pay close attention to changes in balance or stability.
Advice and treatment
The podiatrist assesses what is increasing your risk of falling. During the assessment, we look at, amongst other things, your balance, muscle strength, gait, feet and shoes.
Treatment may consist of:
- shoe advice;
- podiatric insoles;
- advice on exercising safely;
- foot exercises;
- advice on tax and stability;
- referral to other healthcare providers, such as a physiotherapist or occupational therapist.
