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As part of their Be Steady, Safe and Secure campaign, co-operative Xest want to raise awareness for the struggle faced by those who have suffered falls, to help them remain independent in their own home and to prevent further falls. In the UK, over 95% of hip fractures occur from a fall, and are unfortunately the leading cause of death from injury among people over 75, with costs to the NHS estimated at £15 million every year.
The Royal College of Physicians national clinical audit, showed that opportunities to prevent recurrent falls are being missed.
Andrea Dipple, Managing Director co-operative Xest said, “We are passionate about helping people stay independent in their own homes. One cannot underestimate the psychological and physical affects of a fall. At co-operative Xest, our main focus is helping people to make small changes to their daily life so they can continue to live with dignity and minimal intervention. The desire from the patient to stay in their own home cannot be forgotten in terms of aiding recovery and sense of wellbeing. We work hard to ensure our products meet the highest standards, are easy to install and affordable.”
Be Steady, Safe and Secure - Hints and Tips to prevent a fall
Falls result from many different factors but they are not an inevitable part of ageing.
Make sure you are aware of the following factors.
1) Be Steady on your feet. Medical research has highlighted that foot problems can increase the risk of falls. Ask your local chiropodist or GP about how to keep your feet healthy and check you are wearing the correct type of shoes.
2) Be Safe in your Home. Think carefully before standing on chairs to reach high places in the kitchen or bedroom. Even simple tasks like changing a light bulb can result in a hazardous fall. Take care on the stairs and make sure you have good lighting, and watch out for slipping on carpets if you are wearing slippers – take your time and don’t rush. Ask a neighbour or relative to help you rather than risk a fall. Talk to your GP if you have any concerns.
3) Be Secure every day. Some medicines have side effects that can make you dizzy and increase your risk of a fall. In the home it’s vital you don’t attempt things that put you at risk of falling or hurting yourself. If dizziness is one of the side effects of any medication you are taking, or if you take more than four different medicines, ask your GP or pharmacist for a medicines review.
www.co-opXest.com
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http://www.prlog.org/
