A DISTRICT care trust is raising awareness of simple measures older people can take to help avoid a fall.

Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust says falls are the biggest cause of hospital admissions amongst the elderly – yet many incidents could be avoided.

The trust’s falls prevention team is supporting Falls Awareness Week and issuing advice.

It has posted videos and a range of tips on its website, at bdct.nhs.uk/services/falls-prevention-team.

Advice covers a range of issues from footwear to trip hazards to watch out for in the home.

Stephen Pugh, the team’s physical activity co-ordinator, said: “Falls are not an inevitable part of getting older, but approximately one in 20 older people living in the community experience a fracture or need hospitalisation after a fall.

“Yet many falls are preventable and we want to ensure that local people know we are here to help and make them aware of some simple things they can do to reduce the risks.”

He added: “Some older people have found it more difficult to exercise in the past few months as they’ve been shielding at home or because many social meet-ups have had to be cancelled.

“It’s really important to keep moving because being too sedentary and sitting for too long can lead to weakness in the muscles of your lower limbs, which can impact both on your strength and balance, increasing your risk of a fall.”

Osteoporosis in older people also means a greater risk of fractures if they do suffer a fall.

Anyone who would like support or advice over the phone should call 01274 228300 and ask for the falls prevention team.