Every year, more than three million people aged over 65, including half of those aged 80+, will have a fall. The consequences can be devastating, both physically and emotionally.

There are many factors that can lead to falls and this year's Falls Awareness Week, run by Age UK, will focus on the link between reduced vision and falls. A series of events will be happening across the country between Monday 20 and Friday 24 June to encourage people in later life to take simple steps to prevent falls, such as having an eye test.

Falls Awareness Week is an opportunity for Age UK to encourage people in later life to find out more about falls prevention and take part in local activities to reduce their risk of falling. Last year, over 1,200 events took place around the UK; this year, Age UK is asking older people to 'Watch Your Step' and attend activities which help reduce the risk of falling. People can find out more about what's happening in their local area by visiting here.

Age UK's Falls Awareness Week 2011 will promote activities and projects that help to prevent falls in later life - from letting people know how important regular eye tests are and giving your walking stick an M.O.T., to finding out how to do strength and balance exercises at an organised session or from the comfort of your armchair.

Helena Herklots, Services Director at Age UK, said: "It is not just falls themselves that have an impact, the fear of falling can have a devastating effect on confidence - limiting daily activities and reducing independence. There are however a number of things can be done to help prevent falls; simply making sure you have regular eye tests and wearing the right prescription glasses can help with balance and make you feel more confident on your feet."

Source:
Age UK