Avoiding trips, slips and falls

• Staying active is the best way to stay fit, healthy and independent for longer.

• Strength and balance exercises can help you feel more steady.

• Give yourself time. When you start to rush, you'll take less care, increasing your chances of tripping.

• Get up slowly out of chairs and bed, in case you feel dizzy.

• Try not to over-reach for things. Keep objects you regularly need close to you.

• Do not stand on chairs to change lightbulbs or clean windows. Ask for help instead.

• Aim to follow a well-balanced diet with protein, starchy foods, vitamins and minerals for energy and stronger muscles.

• Remember alcohol can make you unsteady and slow down your reactions.

• Low vitamin D levels may be a risk factor for falling. If you’re over 65 and are not sure if you’re getting enough vitamin D, consider taking a vitamin D supplement.

• Choose shoes and slippers with a patterned tread rather than smooth soles. Avoid loose, backless and high-heeled footwear, which can increase your risk of falling.

• Avoid clothes that are long and trailing.

• Keep your glasses clean and hearing aids well maintained.

• If you're at high risk of falling, you may feel more confident wearing special hip protector pants. These work by cushioning the impact of a fall if you stumble.

• If you have a medical condition that makes you feel unsteady or dizzy, your doctor may be able to prescribe a medication for the condition to make you safer.

• Some medicines can cause unsteadiness. If you’re taking a number of tablets, ask your doctor or pharmacist to review them.

• If you've stumbled and fallen a number of times, ask your doctor or nurse if you can access a specialist falls service.

These simple measures can help reduce your risk of slips, trips and falls at home.

• If you have a rug on a polished floor, use a non-slip mat underneath.

• Move any rugs or mats that you might trip over.

• Ensure stair carpets are not loose or frayed.

• Keep walkways clutter free with no trailing wires.

• Mop up spills immediately using a long-handled mop.

• Make sure you are warm enough at home. If your muscles get cold, they will not work efficiently.

• Fit handrails on the stairs and in the bathroom.

• Fit a cage over your letterbox so you do not have to bend down to pick up the post.

• Buy long-life lightbulbs that will not need changing so often.

• Make sure the landing and stairs are well-lit and turn on the lights at night if you’re walking around.