The Stay On Your Feet® Remove Hazards campaign launched on the 1st of March and will run through until 31st May 2025. The Remove Hazards campaign supports older Western Australians to make their homes safer, check their eyesight, and look after their feet to prevent falls and promote healthy ageing.
Your home should be a safe and comfortable environment for you to live in, but hazards can be found inside and outside of the home. When these hazards are combined with other factors, such as poor vision and unsafe footwear, the risk of having a fall increases.
Home safety
Did you know most hospitalised falls among people aged 65 and over happen within the home?
Common areas where falls occur in the home are outdoor areas, the bathroom, and the bedroom. Many falls in the home occur due to hazards, such as loose rugs, cluttered pathways, poorly lit areas, and slippery surfaces. Making small changes such as keeping walkways clear, securing rugs with non-slip backing, and ensuring adequate lighting in frequently used spaces are simple and effective ways to prevent a fall.
Outdoor hazards, such as uneven paths, overgrown gardens, and slippery driveways, can be a risk, especially in wet conditions. Maintaining these areas and ensuring garden tools are put away can help create a safer home. Occupational Therapists can perform home assessments and recommend home modifications and assistive equipment.
Vision
Our vision helps us maintain our balance and identify and navigate hazards in our environment, which is important for preventing falls.
Changes to our vision can be very gradual, so they can easily go unnoticed. Changes may include clouded vision, sensitivity to light, difficulty with vision at night, and dry or watery eyes. The main eye conditions associated with ageing include Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy, Glaucoma, and Cataracts.
It is important to get our eyes tested every two years and speak to a GP or Optometrist if there are any changes.
Feet and footwear
If you notice any changes or have concerns about your feet, you should see a Podiatrist to assess your need for better footwear, treatment, or exercises.
It’s normal for our feet to change as we grow older. As the only direct source of contact with the ground, shoes that support our feet and protect them from injury are essential.
Ensure footwear is safe, including a textured sole and a supportive heel, and is secure to the foot. Footwear that is unsafe or does not fit well can cause common foot problems such as pain, bunions, corns and calluses, blisters, or ingrown toenails. You can keep your feet healthy through self-care, and regular check-ups with your Podiatrist at least once a year.
For more information or a free information pack email [email protected] or call 1300 30 35 40.