The local NHS are working together to highlight the simple but effective ways that people, particularly the elderly, can reduce their risk of falling and injuring themselves this winter.

Now that the dark nights are upon us and temperatures are dropping, icy conditions mean getting around can be tricky and accidents can occur. By just being aware of the change in the environment and avoiding unnecessary outdoor trips in the slippery conditions you could dodge a nasty accident.

Falls are the most frequent and serious type of accident for people especially in the icy weather. It is estimated that about one third of people aged 65 and over and more than half of over 85’s will fall at least once a year.

December 2009 saw the highest ever recorded number of trauma admissions at Poole Hospital, with 450 patients admitted compared with 286 in the same month the previous year. Since 2008 the Day Hospital Specialist Services at the Christchurch Hospital have also seen a steady increase of over 190 patients as a result of falls.

The effect that falls have on patients can be considerable. Over 95% of hip fractures are as a result of a fall combined with having bones which are not strong. Half of those who fracture their hips will have difficulty being able to walk again, sometimes losing their ability to live independently.

Sharing accident prevention information and taking the right precautions are the best ways to reduce the risks of falls. Top tips on preventing trips, slips and falls include:

1. Keep in doors and avoid going out if possible if it is icy outside. Avoid going out early in the morning when it is still dark as you can’t see ice that may be on the ground which could cause you to slip. If you have a Lifeline, wear it.

2. Take regular exercise to keep your muscles strong and supple.

3. Consider fitting grab rails on the stairs, in bathrooms and toilets. Ensure the lighting is good and nightlights are in place.

4. Care for your feet and keep your toenails trimmed. Avoid poorly fitting shoes that are not suitable for the icy conditions.

5. Ensure you have your medications reviewed every year and have regular eye tests. 6. Eat a balanced and nutritious diet and drinking plenty of fluids.

7. Get up from your chair or bed slowly to allow your blood pressure to adjust.

8. Never allow wires to trail across the floor and avoid clutter in walkways.

9. Replace worn carpets and keeping rugs to a minimum to reduce the risk of tripping over.

10. Minimise bending and climbing. Keeping items that are used a lot within easy reach.

Joy Christopher, Falls Prevention Coordinator at Poole Hospital said: “With the weather now getting colder, it is vital that people take care. On 23 December last year – one of the very icy days in the run up to Christmas – we had the highest ever number of attendances at our Emergency Department as a result of slippery conditions.”

“Elderly people in particular are more at risk of injuring themselves if they fall, and in cold conditions there can be other serious consequences – for example, if someone falls and is unable to get up, they risk hypothermia if they have to wait to be found.

“Even something as simple as putting the bin out can result in a fall, so don’t take the risk if you can avoid it. If you do have to go out when it’s icy, wear well fitting shoes which have grip. Remember to take your walking stick or walking aid if you use one and your glasses if you use them, to help you see where the ice is.”

Kathy Bluston, Clinical Specialist Physiotherapist in Falls Preventions at the Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals, said: “Unfortunately the nursing and therapy staff at the Christchurch Day Hospital see many elderly people with injuries caused by falls each year.

“Many falls are easily preventable, by simply removing clutter and obstacles in the home, using a walking stick or walking aid and asking others for help when lifting or moving things around the home.

Dr Adrian Dawson, Director of Public Health for Bournemouth and Poole, said: “We know that our hospital services start to get stretched during the winter months and we want to avoid any additional, unnecessary attendances or admissions due to the weather. People should think very carefully before going out when the ground is icy so they can keep themselves safe.”

Remember, accidents do happen, but while the young, fit and healthy might regard taking a tumble in the street or garden as a minor hazard, for the elderly, physically disabled, or long-term ill, the experience can have serious consequences.

The message to take home for the community is prevention is always better than cure. Take the right precautions and be careful.