Fall alarm
for the elderly

A fall alarm is a device that alerts emergency services when a fall has occurred. These can either be manually controlled or feature automatic fall detection. A manual fall alarm requests help once the wearer of the alarm has raised the SOS (typically by pressing a button), whereas an automatic fall alarm will request help automatically once the technology has detected a fall.

We’ve all heard the horrid stories of elderly individuals waiting for an extremely lengthy period of time for help. A fall alarm can prevent this by ensuring that the person who has fallen is able to communicate their situation as soon as possible. This is extremely important as the seriousness of an injury tends to increase if help does not arrive in a timely fashion.

Depending on the severity of the injury, an automatic fall alarm may well be the best option. With that said, the vast majority of falls do not prevent the wearer from activating the alarm manually, so a device that offers manual and automatic alarms in tandem (such as the YourStride fall alarm watch) is usually the best option.

Yes and no. Most fall detectors are also personal alarms, but not all personal alarms are fall detectors. Whilst personal alarms give you access to emergency help, not all feature an automatic fall detection sensor. They can of course be used to assist following a fall, but this will need to be activated manually by the wearer.

YourStride features the best of both worlds, with fall detection as well as an SOS button that can be activated manually. Whereas other alarm providers rushed into using fall detection technology before it was ready, we held out until we were comfortable that the tech was up to the required standard. Our goal is to provide the best service possible - not to jump on the latest trend.

With that said, after testing the latest in fall detection extensively, we believe that the technology is now reliable enough to enhance your experience with YourStride. That is not to say that the technology is perfect - but it has come a long way. And whilst there may be the occasional false fall detected, the YourStride alarm allows users the option to cancel the emergency call before it is connected.

Some personal alarms, such as the YourStride fall alarm, include automatic fall detection. These devices are able to detect when a wearer has fallen by monitoring any rapid changes in acceleration or movement. Some alarms are also able to monitor for any heavy impacts experienced. Once this alert has been triggered, the alarm watch will request help from its emergency monitoring team, and/or contacts that the wearer has chosen.

Balancing trigger sensitivity is one of the issues commonly faced by automatic fall detection devices. It’s not incredibly uncommon for an alert to be triggered despite no fall having taken place. Whilst it is better to be safe than sorry, a false alarm may cause undue concern for all involved (particularly if the family is notified). YourStride’s alarm has undergone extensive tests to reduce the risk of a false alarm as much as possible, but eradicating this completely is simply impossible given the technology out there at the moment. To avoid this undue stress, the YourStride smartwatch allows you to cancel an emergency call in the event of a false alarm with a simple press of a button.

For our full guide on how fall detection works, please click here.

Whilst many fall alarms for the elderly use similar technology, there are a number of factors that should be considered prior to ordering. With these factors taken into account, we believe that YourStride fall alarm for the elderly is the optimal choice for most customers.

• Range: What is the working range of the alarm? Some fall alarms for the elderly will require the wearer to be within a certain distance of its accompanying box to work. The YourStride fall alarm is a standalone device. This is typically preferable as it does not require a link to a mobile phone, wifi, box, or other connection. The benefit of a short range personal alarm is that the battery typically lasts longer, and may be the right option for those who are housebound or who rarely leave home for whatever reason. The YourStride fall alarm, on the other hand, works anywhere in the UK, 24/7. You can request emergency help at the press of a button, or have the watch automatically detect a fall. Both of these options are unlimited by range in the UK. Quite simply, with YourStride you can get emergency help wherever you are in the UK.
• Design: Some alarms have a more traditional appearance, drawing comparisons to the big, red buttons commonly found on personal alarms in the early 1980s. Other alarms have a more discreet appearance. The design also affects how and where the alarm is worn, with some alarms having a bracelet design and others being made to be worn around the neck like a necklace. YourStride’s fall alarm watch is stylish and discreet, and doesn’t stand out. It looks just like a normal smartwatch and we often hear from customers that, with YourStride, they have finally found a personal alarm that they are proud to wear!
• Trial period: The sensitivity of fall alarms can vary, and an overly sensitive alarm trigger can quickly become a nuisance. It’s important that your order includes a trial period and/or money back guarantee (YourStride offers a 30 day money back guarentee). This will allow you to test the device’s sensitivity, the compatibility of its design and build, and whether or not it’s the right fall alarm for you. YourStride also offers the option to adjust the fall sensitivity trigger or disable the automatic fall detection feature altogether. This means that if after the first 30 days you are otherwise happy, you can avoid the hassle and stress of switching alarm providers altogether by simply disabling the fall detection feature.
• Emergency monitoring team: Some fall alarms for the elderly will connect you to a 24/7, emergency monitoring team. Other elderly fall alarms will connect you to a selected group of contacts, typically family, friends, and even neighbours. We would recommend that you opt for an alarm with a dedicated monitoring team such as YourStride. This will ensure that help is always available. It’s also important to note that a monitoring team is likely to have a lot more experience and expertise in dealing with emergency situations than your family and friends, despite their best intentions.
• Set-up and installation: As a standalone fall alarm for the elderly, the YourStride fall alarm will work straight out of the box. Other alarms, especially those linked to a box, will require some kind of installation and it’s likely that you will be charged a fee for this. It’s important to consider this cost when comparing the prices of fall alarms.

When it comes to price, you should also consider the initial fee along with the service cost. Some providers charge a higher upfront cost but a smaller monthly fee for monitoring. The reverse is also true. It’s best to sit down and calculate all the costs before deciding upon the right fall alarm for you.

The YourStride fall alarm watch is the UK’s highest rated fall alarm for the elderly. It features both a manual fall alarm, an automatic fall detector, and a dedicated monitoring team. It works anywhere in the UK, with a long battery life and a discreet appearance. We offer a 30 day money back guarantee and you can cancel the service at any time and at no cost. If this sounds like something that could help you, order online today, or give us a call on 020 3868 5575.

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Yes!

When a fall is detected, the YourStride fall alarm for the elderly will vibrate and an audio message will announce that a fall has been detected. At this point, the YourStride fall alarm allows you to cancel the request before the SOS call is made. If the alarm is not cancelled, it will call through as expected.

We have included the option to cancel a call because (as with all fall detection devices) your fall alarm watch may occasionally mistake a sudden movement for a fall. To keep this to a minimum we have extensively tested various trigger sensitivities, but we also allow users to disable automatic fall detection altogether. We understand that it isn’t for everyone.

Striking the perfect balance is difficult as a lower trigger sensitivity can have the reverse effect, with a fall not being detected at all. For this reason, you may decide to forgo fall detection technology altogether and instead rely on the SOS button alone. An alarm that offers both automatic and manual options (particularly if you can disable the automatic fall sensor if it doesn’t work for you), such as YourStride’s fall alarm watch, typically offers the best of both worlds.

Certainly! The YourStride fall alarm watch offers three sensitivity options: low, medium, and high.

• Low sensitivity: This setting is ideal for individuals who may have the odd movement or gesture that could be mistaken for a fall. It minimises false alarms by requiring more pronounced movements to trigger the fall detection feature.
• Medium sensitivity: This option provides a balanced level of sensitivity, suitable for most users. It offers a good compromise between detecting potential falls and minimising false alarms.
• High sensitivity: This setting is designed for individuals who require maximum sensitivity for fall detection. It is suitable for those with higher risk or more frequent falls, ensuring prompt alerts in case of any potential incidents.

You can adjust the sensitivity setting either through your YourStride account page online or by giving us a call on 020 3868 5575. If you need any assistance with changing the setting, our customer service team will be more than happy to help you out.

To use the YourStride fall detection watch, you'll only need a mains electricity socket to charge your watch - we will, of course, provide you with the charger. Unlike alternatives, our stand-alone digital falls watch doesn't require a phone socket so set-up couldn’t be easier. In fact, it will arrive fully set-up and ready to use!

In addition to charging the watch, it's important that you inform us of any named contacts you'd like us to reach out to in case of an emergency. This ensures that the right individuals are promptly notified and can provide support if necessary.

Furthermore, if you have a key safe, we strongly recommend providing us with its location and code. Be assured that this information will only be shared with emergency services. By doing so, they can conveniently and swiftly access your property if the need arises, ensuring timely assistance in critical situations.

Yes, the fall detection watch also functions as a personal alarm pendant. If you press the SOS button on the face of the fall alarm watch, it will contact our emergency monitoring team. They will then be able to communicate with you through the watch via a 2-way conversion and promptly arrange the necessary help in case you require assistance.

If you do not want to use the fall detection feature at all, you can opt out when purchasing, or disable it via your account or by calling us on 020 3868 5575. With fall detection disabled, your alarm watch will function like a personal alarm pendant, requiring a manual press of the SOS button to request help.

Certainly! The YourStride fall alarm watch is compatible with hearing aids, making it accessible and convenient for individuals who rely on these devices. We understand the importance of seamless integration with assistive technologies, which is why we've ensured that our watch works effectively for customers who use hearing aids.

The watch's design and functionality take into consideration the diverse needs of our customers, including those with hearing impairments. Whether you wear behind-the-ear (BTE), in-the-ear (ITE), or any other type of hearing aid, rest assured that our watch is designed to accommodate your needs.

Yes, many of our customers who have pacemakers use our watch without any issues.

However, as with any electronic device, it's essential to exercise caution and follow the guidelines provided by healthcare professionals and regulatory bodies. In this case, we recommend following the guidance outlined by the NHS for mobile phones when using our watch alongside a pacemaker.

Yes, the fall alarm will still work during a power cut. Our fall detection watch operates independently of mains power, so it remains functional even if there is a power outage. The watch is equipped with its own internal battery, ensuring continuous operation and providing peace of mind for users, regardless of external power disruptions. You can rely on the fall alarm to remain active and responsive to detect falls and provide assistance when needed, even in the event of a power cut.

You can order online by clicking the ‘Order Now’ button below. During the checkout process, you'll have the opportunity to review your order and provide necessary details for delivery.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more personal touch, feel free to give us a call at 020 3868 5575. Our friendly customer service representatives will be more than happy to assist you with placing your order over the phone.

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Absolutely, we understand that sometimes you may need to order our fall alarm service for someone else, whether it's for a family member, a friend, or someone you're caring for. When you're placing your order, we make it easy for you to do just that. During the ordering process, you'll be prompted to indicate whether you're purchasing the service for yourself or for someone else.

This simple step ensures that we have all the necessary information to tailor our service accordingly. Whether it's setting up the monitoring profile, arranging delivery preferences, or personalising any additional features, we make sure to accommodate the needs and preferences of the intended recipient.

This flexibility allows you to conveniently purchase our service as a thoughtful gift or as a practical solution for someone who may benefit from it. Whether it's providing peace of mind for an elderly relative, ensuring safety for a loved one with specific medical needs, or simply offering support to a friend in need, ordering our service for someone else is just as straightforward and seamless as ordering it for yourself.

We accept all major credit and debit cards, allowing you to choose the payment method that works best for you. Once you've completed your order, you'll receive a confirmation email with details of your purchase. Additionally, you can log in to your account on our website at any time to view your bills and make changes if needed. Our secure online platform ensures that your payment information remains safe and protected throughout the transaction process, giving you peace of mind as you shop with us.

95% of our customers are exempt from paying VAT on their order. To determine whether you need to pay VAT on your fall alarm, it depends on your individual circumstances. If you or the person you are purchasing the alarm for has a medical condition that requires regular medication or is registered as disabled, you may be eligible for VAT exemption.

To qualify for VAT exemption, you must meet certain criteria. This includes having a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects your ability to carry out everyday activities. Alternatively, if the medical profession recognises your condition as chronic, such as in the case of diabetes, or if you have a terminal illness, then you may also be eligible for VAT relief.

When placing your order online, you can select the VAT exempt option if you believe you, or the person you are purchasing for, qualify. We will request some simple details from you, and from there, we will take care of the necessary process on your behalf.

Ultimately, whether or not you need to pay VAT on your fall alarm depends on your specific situation and meeting the criteria for VAT exemption based on chronic sickness or disability.

No. With YourStride, there's no need to worry about paying for minutes or data when using the watch. All emergency call minutes and data required to operate the watch are included in your simple monthly payment (£17.99, or £19.99 if you opt in to the fall detection features). This means you can use the watch to make unlimited emergency calls without any additional charges or hidden fees, providing peace of mind knowing that help is always accessible whenever you need it.

By consolidating all costs into a single monthly payment, we aim to make it easier for you to budget and manage your expenses, without the hassle of tracking usage or worrying about unexpected charges. Our transparent pricing model ensures that you know exactly what you're paying for and can enjoy the full benefits of our service without any surprises.

Certainly! You can decide against fall detection on purchase, instead relying on the manual activation of the SOS button for requesting emergency help. If you later decide that you would like to opt in to our fall detection features, you can do so for an additional £2 per month.

Similarly, you can remove fall detection at any point, reducing your monthly service charge by £2 per month. You can opt in or out of fall detection by logging into your account or by giving us a call on 020 3868 5575. We understand that preferences and needs may change over time, which is why we offer the flexibility to customise your plan according to your requirements.

Your watch is typically posted the day following your order via Royal Mail’s 24hr service. We do not charge for postage.

Once you've completed your profile, we waste no time in getting your order ready. We understand the urgency of your order, which is why we typically begin setting up your package on the very same day that your profile is finalised. Here's what we do:

• Setting Up Your Profile: Our team promptly sets up your profile on our systems to ensure seamless monitoring and support.
• Testing and Charging: Your watch undergoes thorough testing and is fully charged to ensure it's ready for immediate use upon arrival.
• Packaging and Shipping: We carefully package your watch and send it to you via Royal Mail's Tracked 24 service, guaranteeing secure and trackable delivery.
• Personal Touch: As a gesture of our commitment to your satisfaction, we'll give you a friendly call to say hello and introduce ourselves.

Moreover, we take pride in collaborating with Mail Out, a fellow social enterprise dedicated to providing training and employment support for adults with learning disabilities and/or autism. Through this partnership, we not only ensure the timely delivery of your watch but also contribute to creating opportunities for individuals in need. With 16 trainees and one self-funded apprentice benefiting from a paid year apprenticeship, Mail Out plays a vital role in fostering skill development and empowerment within the community.

Both Mail Out and YourStride are supported by UnLtd, the foundation for social entrepreneurs, further underlining our commitment to social impact and community empowerment.

At YourStride, we stand behind the quality and functionality of our products, which is why we offer three guarantees to ensure customer satisfaction and confidence:

• 12-Month Guarantee Against Manufacturing Defects: We're committed to delivering products of the highest quality, free from any manufacturing defects. In the unlikely event that your watch experiences any issues due to manufacturing defects within the first 12 months of purchase, we offer a comprehensive guarantee to address and rectify these issues promptly. Our goal is to provide you with a reliable and durable product that meets your needs and expectations.
• 30-Day Money Back Guarantee: We understand that purchasing a new product can sometimes be a leap of faith, which is why we offer a 30-day money back guarantee for added peace of mind. If for any reason you're not completely satisfied with your purchase, you have the option to return your watch within 30 days of receipt and receive a full refund, no questions asked. This guarantee ensures that you can try our product risk-free and make an informed decision about whether it meets your requirements.
• Works Straight Out of the Box: We believe in simplicity and convenience, which is why we guarantee that your watch will work straight out of the box. Our dedicated team in the UK takes care of setting up your watch with your details, ensuring that it's ready to use as soon as you receive it. With no complicated setup processes or technical hassles, you can start using your watch right away to enjoy the benefits of our fall detection technology and peace of mind knowing that help is always within reach.

These guarantees reflect our commitment to delivering exceptional products and service to our customers. We prioritise transparency, reliability, and customer satisfaction, and these guarantees are our way of demonstrating our confidence in the quality and effectiveness of our products.

Our fall alarm comes with a comprehensive cancellation and return policy to ensure your satisfaction. If, within 30 days of your purchase, you decide that the YourStride fall alarm is not what you expected, you can return it free of charge and we will provide a complete refund of your order. We are confident in our product, which is why we offer a 30-day money back guarantee.

Even after the initial 30-day period, you can still cancel at any time on the monthly plan. If you choose to cancel your subscription, the service will be stopped and you will not incur any further charges.

Overall, our aim is to provide a hassle-free experience for our customers. We strive to provide an exceptional customer experience, allowing you to confidently try the fall alarm while knowing that you have the flexibility to cancel if it doesn't meet your expectations.

To add emergency contacts, you'll need to access your (or the person you're buying for’s) profile, which you can do after placing your order. Here, you can update the wearer's details and add contacts.

You have the option to add as many emergency contacts as you like, ensuring there's a network of support readily available. You can manage this directly by logging in to your account or by giving us a call, and we'll assist you in making the changes over the phone.

It's advisable to include 2 or 3 contacts who are nearby and have a key to your home, such as a neighbour, friend, or family member. This ensures that help can quickly reach you in case of an emergency.

In situations where you don't have suitable contacts available, we recommend installing a key safe. A key safe is a secure box that stores your keys and can be accessed using a code, providing a safe and accessible solution for emergency access.

When you request help through our service, our dedicated monitoring team springs into action immediately. They assess the situation thoroughly to determine the most appropriate course of action, ranging from a simple phone call to contacting next of kin or dispatching emergency services like an ambulance.

Upon activation of the SOS (either by pressing the button on your watch or a fall being detected), an estimate of your location is sent, and a call is made to our monitoring team, who are available 24/7 to provide assistance. Staffed by professionals trained to the highest standards, our TSA accredited monitoring centre has highly experienced operators handling over 20,000 calls monthly.

Our monitoring team will speak with you via a 2-way conversation through the watch to understand the nature of the emergency comprehensively. Based on this assessment, they'll swiftly alert the most appropriate emergency service or named contacts to provide assistance promptly.

In terms of response time, we prioritise efficiency, with our team available to assist within 60 seconds of activating the SOS button on 97.5% of occasions, ensuring that help is just moments away when you need it most.

Having a key safe is highly recommended, especially for those who do not have a nearby emergency contact available within a 30-minute travel distance. By having a key safe, you have the option to share its location and code with us. Rest assured, we would only provide the code to the emergency services if we contact them on your behalf and you are unable to physically reach the door. This additional security measure ensures that help can quickly reach you in case of an emergency.

To read our guide on key safes, please click here.

One of the more common life events leading to the use of a fall alarm is, unsurprisingly, a fall. Luckily, there is a simple test designed for those aged 65 and up that can calculate your risk of falling before it occurs. It is regularly used by the NHS and can be a real life-saver, so take your time and go through each step carefully. You can find the test below:

Let’s begin with some easy questions:

1. Have you had a fall in the last 12 months?
2. Are you on four or more medications a day?
3. Do you have Parkinson's disease or have you had a stroke?
4. Do you stop walking when answering someone else's questions?
5. Do you sway significantly while standing?
6. Do you struggle to balance with one foot an inch off the ground?
7. Do you struggle to get up from a chair?

If you answered ‘yes’ to two or more of the questions above, then you should discuss the result with your GP. It may mean that you are at a higher risk of a fall, so early, preventative action may be recommended.

Once you’ve completed the short questionnaire above, you should try the test below. It’s known as the "timed up and go" test, and all you need to get started is a chair with 3 metres (10ft) of clear floor space ahead of it, and a way of timing yourself. Sit down on the chair, and follow the sequence below. Remember to time yourself.

1. Stand up from the chair
2. Walk 3 metres (10ft) in a straight line at your normal walking pace
3. Turn 180 degrees
4. Walk back to the chair at your normal walking pace
5. Sit back down in the chair

Stop your timer, and note the duration taken to complete the test. If it has taken you more than 12 seconds, then you should add another yes to your total from the questionnaire. If this figure is equal to, or greater than, two, you should discuss your fall risk with your GP. They may be able to recommend exercises, specialist falls services or aids to reduce your risk. For our guide to reducing the risk of a fall, scroll down where we have some handy tips that you may find useful.

If you scored two or more in our fall risk assessment test (above), then you should consider getting the YourStride fall alarm watch. The YourStride fall alarm for the elderly offers you quick access to emergency support should you require it. If you haven’t yet completed the fall risk assessment test, it shouldn’t take you more than a few minutes and it’s recommended that you finish the test before proceeding.

Those with a history of falling, with particular attention paid to falls which have occurred recently, should also consider the YourStride fall alarm. It’s important to consider the long-term effects of a bad fall which can be greatly reduced if emergency assistance is available promptly. YourStride’s alarm featuring an automatic fall detector is the best option if you are at an increased risk of a fall.

Generally speaking, the elderly are at most risk of falling. In fact, falling is the most common reason for hospital admissions in seniors. If you’re over 65, your chance of suffering a fall in the next twelve months is about 1 in 3. This chance rapidly increases to about 1 in 2 for those aged 80 and above.

Those with long term conditions, such as diabetes or epilepsy, should also consider the YourStride fall alarm for the elderly. You should also look into our fall alarm if your job is particularly high-risk for a bad fall.

A significant concern with fall alarms linked to mobile phones is the burden they place on designated contacts. These individuals agree to be the first point of contact in emergencies, bearing the responsibility of being available round the clock. This constant vigilance can lead to stress and anxiety, especially when the contact person has their own commitments and obligations to juggle. This is why the YourStride fall alarm for the elderly instead connects to an experienced emergency monitoring centre that is available 24/7 as the first point of contact.

Relying on a single contact person introduces the risk of delays in response. Emergencies can occur at any time, and the designated contact may not always be reachable due to various reasons such as work engagements or personal commitments. This limitation could impede the timely assistance needed during critical situations.

Another consideration is the reliance on the availability of the contact person's mobile phone. While mobile phones are ubiquitous, they may not always be charged or easily accessible, potentially hindering the effectiveness of the fall alarm system. This dependency on external factors adds an element of uncertainty to the reliability of the system.

Furthermore, designated contacts may not possess the professional training and expertise needed to handle emergencies effectively. Stress and pressure during crises can impair their ability to communicate critical information accurately, potentially delaying medical assistance. Without proper training, the designated contacts may struggle to navigate the complexities of emergency situations, compromising the efficiency of the response.

Given these concerns, it's essential to explore alternative solutions that offer a more comprehensive approach to elderly safety. While fall alarms linked to mobile phones may provide a sense of security, they may not offer the level of reliability and immediate response needed during emergencies. For true peace of mind, consider the YourStride elderly fall alarm.

As we age, our bodies undergo numerous changes that can increase the likelihood of falls. While falling is not an inevitable part of ageing, several factors contribute to elderly individuals being more susceptible to falls. Understanding these factors is crucial in developing strategies to prevent falls and promote healthy ageing.

• Muscle Weakness and Loss of Balance: One of the primary reasons the elderly are more prone to falls is muscle weakness and loss of balance. As we age, there is a natural decline in muscle mass and strength, known as sarcopenia. Additionally, changes in the vestibular system, which contributes to balance, can occur with ageing. These changes make it more challenging for older adults to maintain their balance and stability, increasing the risk of falls.
• Joint Problems and Arthritis: Conditions such as arthritis can affect joint health and mobility, making movements more painful and difficult. Stiffness and pain in the joints can impair balance and coordination, increasing the likelihood of falls, especially when dealing with uneven terrain or stairs.
• Visual Impairments: Age-related changes in vision, such as reduced depth perception, peripheral vision, and sensitivity to light, can make it harder for older adults to detect obstacles and hazards in their environment. Poor vision increases the risk of tripping over objects or misjudging distances, leading to falls.
• Medications: Elderly adults often take multiple medications to manage various health conditions, but some medications can have side effects that affect balance and cognitive function. Medications such as sedatives, tranquillisers, and certain types of blood pressure medications can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or confusion, increasing the risk of falls.
• Chronic Health Conditions: Chronic health conditions like diabetes, Parkinson's disease, stroke, and cardiovascular diseases can weaken the body, affect mobility, and increase the risk of falls. These conditions may also cause symptoms like numbness, weakness, or fainting spells, further compromising balance and coordination.
• Environmental Hazards: Environmental factors play a significant role in falls among older adults. Cluttered living spaces, slippery floors, poorly lit areas, loose rugs, and uneven surfaces pose hazards that can lead to trips and falls. Additionally, inadequate handrails or grab bars in bathrooms and staircases increase the risk of falls, especially for those with mobility issues.
• Lack of Physical Activity: Sedentary lifestyles contribute to muscle weakness, reduced flexibility, and poor balance, all of which increase the risk of falls. Older adults who are less physically active are more vulnerable to falls compared to those who engage in regular exercise and activities that improve strength, balance, and coordination.

To read our full guide on why the elderly are more likely to fall, please click here.

Reducing the risk of falling is essential for maintaining independence and safety, especially for elderly individuals. Here's a brief introduction on how to minimise the risk of falls:

Strengthen your bones

You need two things: Calcium, and vitamin D to help your body absorb the calcium.

Good sources of calcium include dairy, green leafy vegetables, nuts, soya, tofu, bread and the edible bones of fish such as sardines and pilchards.

Top Tip: avoid spinach as it has a chemical that reduces the absorption of calcium.

The government recommends everyone take a supplement of 10mg of vitamin D every day. Getting out in the sun is always more fun than a tablet but make sure you never burn!

Review medications

If you are taking 4 or more medications, or your medications have not been reviewed for over a year, it can be worth checking with your GP or pharmacist. They can tell you if a review can cut your fall risk.

Eyesight

Take advantage of your free yearly eye test to make sure your eyesight is not getting worse. Trips and falls happen when you cannot see.

Regular activity

Try being active for around 30 minutes, 5 days a week. That could be gardening, going for a walk or even just popping to the shops. If you worry about not being safe when you go out, a YourStride Alarm Watch works everywhere in the UK rather than just at home.

You can also try the following home exercises. They improve strength and balance, which will help you channel your inner Jane Fonda and keep you from falling! All you need is a sturdy chair. If you’d like to read our full guide on the best exercises for the elderly, please click here.

1. Heel Raises. Stand tall, holding the back of a sturdy chair or the kitchen sink. Lift your heels off the floor, taking your weight onto your big toes. Hold for three seconds, then lower with control. Repeat 10 times.
2. Toe Raises Stand tall holding the chair, then raise your toes – taking your weight on your heels. Don’t stick your bottom out. Hold for three seconds, then lower with control. Repeat 10 times.
3. Sit to Stand Sit tall near the front of a chair. Lean forwards slightly and stand up (with hands on the chair if needed). Step back until your legs touch the chair then slowly lower yourself back into the chair. Repeat 10 times.
4. Heel - Toe Stand Stand tall with one hand on the chair. Put one foot directly in front of the other and look ahead. Take your hand off the chair and balance for 10 seconds. Swap your feet and do the same for the other front foot
5. Heel - Toe Walking Stand tall with one hand on your kitchen worktop. Walk 10 paces placing one foot directly in front of the other so the feet form a straight line try to be as steady as you can. Turn around and repeat.
6. One Leg Stand Stand close to the chair holding it with one hand. Balance on one leg, keeping the support knee soft and making sure you are standing upright and hold for 10 seconds. Repeat for the other leg.

If this all seems too much, walking is also great for you. You can use a wearable device like the YourStride gall alarm to track your steps and heart rate, to help you stay motivated day to day.

Remember, even small changes to your lifestyle can make big differences over the long term so do give at least one of these a try.

For our full guide on how to prevent falls in the elderly, please click here.

Home safety modifications

I know with this one you’re going to think we’re teaching you how to suck eggs, but it’s amazing how we all get so used to the setup of our homes without thinking about it.

Firstly, you can request a home hazard assessment for yourself or for someone you are worried about falling through your GP or local council. A professional can help identify simple changes to make your home safer.

Alternatively, there are a few things you can think about yourself;

• Could you have better lighting?
• Make sure rugs have non-slip underlay and replace frayed carpets
• Check for loose cables that could be trip hazards and tape them back
• Get a non-slip mat for your bath or shower
• Clear away any clutter
• Repair any cracks in your garden paving

1. Stay calm and lie still for a minute, and check that you are not injured.
2. Getting up
   • Roll onto your side and push up onto your elbows
   • Get onto your hands and knees
   • Crawl to a stable piece of furniture to use it for support
   • Slide or raise the foot of your stronger leg so it is flat to the floor
   • Push up using your arms and front leg until you are standing
   • Sit down and rest for a while
3. Getting help - if you can’t get up or feel pain in your hips or back you should try to get help

If you have a personal alarm, you can press the button to raise the alarm and speak to someone who can help .If you have your mobile phone with you, you can call for help.

If you can’t get to a phone, you should try banging on the floor, radiators or wall so that a neighbour might hear you.

Make sure you are warm and comfortable as you wait for help to arrive.

After experiencing a fall, it's crucial to be vigilant for any symptoms that could indicate underlying injuries or complications. While not all falls result in serious injuries, it's essential to assess the situation and seek medical attention if necessary. Here are some symptoms to watch for after a fall:

• Pain and Swelling: Pain or swelling in any part of the body, especially in the joints, back, neck, or head, could indicate sprains, strains, or fractures. It's essential to assess the severity of the pain and whether it worsens with movement.
• Bruising and Discoloration: Bruising or discoloration around the site of impact or on other parts of the body may indicate internal bleeding or tissue damage. Pay attention to the size, colour, and location of bruises, as well as any changes over time.
• Difficulty Moving or Bearing Weight: Difficulty moving a limb or bearing weight on a particular body part could signal a musculoskeletal injury such as a fracture or dislocation. If walking or standing becomes challenging after a fall, it's essential to seek medical evaluation promptly.
• Headache or Dizziness: Headaches, dizziness, or lightheadedness following a fall may indicate a concussion or other head injury. Symptoms such as confusion, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, or changes in consciousness require immediate medical attention.
• Loss of Consciousness: Loss of consciousness, even for a brief moment, is a red flag that necessitates urgent medical evaluation. It could indicate a concussion, brain injury, or other serious underlying condition.
• Numbness or Tingling: Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the limbs could be signs of nerve damage or compression. These symptoms may develop immediately after a fall or gradually over time, so it's essential to monitor for any changes in sensation or motor function.
• Difficulty Breathing: Difficulty breathing or chest pain after a fall could indicate rib fractures, internal injuries, or respiratory problems. Seek medical attention immediately if breathing difficulties persist or worsen.
• Changes in Mental Status: Changes in mental status, such as confusion, agitation, or disorientation, may indicate underlying injuries, shock, or neurological complications. These symptoms require prompt medical evaluation to rule out serious conditions.
• Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control: Loss of bladder or bowel control following a fall may indicate spinal cord injury or neurological damage. It's essential to seek medical attention promptly to assess the extent of the injury and prevent complications.
• Emotional Distress: Emotional distress, anxiety, or fear of falling again can have significant implications for an individual's well-being and quality of life. Addressing psychological concerns after a fall is essential to support recovery and prevent future falls.

In summary, it's essential to be vigilant for any signs or symptoms that may indicate underlying injuries or complications after a fall. Prompt evaluation and appropriate medical care can help prevent further injury and facilitate recovery. If in doubt, it's always best to err on the side of caution and seek medical attention for proper assessment and treatment.