In Midlothian we want you to have a long and healthy life where you have support in your community to stay well and choice about how you do that.
Being active is a big part of living well and we have lots of options available to help you to do that; from Midlothian Active Choices which offers a programme of specialist instructor led activities, Best Step Forward’s strength and balance classes to Ageing Well which offers a wide range of activities for the 50+ age group including health walks, line dancing, New Age Kurling, Tai Chi, indoor bowling, seated exercise classes and more.
For more information, please see Wellbeing | Midlothian Council
If you feel you are at risk of falling or have had a recent fall and would like to speak to a health care professional about this then you can contact the advanced physiotherapist service within your GP practice who can carry out assessment and discuss the best way to support you. They can also deal with any Muscle or joint issues that may be affecting your mobility.
There is more information on the service at GP Advanced Physiotherapy Practitioners – Physiotherapy) or contact your GP practice and ask to see the practice physiotherapist.
Telecare, also known as community alarms, provides peace of mind for you and your family 24 hours a day. A range of alarm equipment can alert for help if you fall. Further information is available via Midcare – Midcare alarm service | Midlothian Council and from NHS Inform Technology enabled care | NHS inform
Be prepared in case you fall
- NHS Inform shows you how to be prepared and know how to get up off the floor.
- The Get Up And Go booklet provides information on how to make a plan in case you fall.
- Further information on how we plan health and care services for people in their homes, in the community and hospital can be found on the Midlothian Health and Social Care Partnership page Midlothian Health and Social Care Partnership
Ways to reduce your risk of falls
How is your eyesight?
- Getting your eyesight checked regularly is important.
- Visit NHS Inform for information about getting your eyes checked.
- You may be entitled to a free eye test.
- Contact your local optician to arrange an appointment.
Do you hear well?
It is a good idea to get your hearing tested regularly. Your GP can arrange a referral to Audiology. Many opticians also offer hearing tests free of charge.
How are your feet and shoes?
Foot problems and shoes that are well worn or don’t fit well can increase your risk of falls. A podiatrist can help you and you can self-refer to Podiatry. It is a good idea to have shoes that have good grip, especially during winter and to consider replacing your shoes if they are well worn or don’t fit well.
Do you have any pain or injuries?
Pain and injuries can make you less steady on your feet. Your GP surgery can refer you to a physiotherapist. If you live in Edinburgh, you can self refer to Midlothian – Physiotherapy.
How is your home environment?
There are often ways to make your home safer. Check your home is well lit and you have space to easily walk around to avoid tripping. You may benefit from equipment to make you home safer and easier to live in. Your health professional can assess and refer you for this. If you live in Midlothian you can order community equipment and minor adaptions Equipment and adaptations for your home
Do you have enough energy?
Eating well and drinking plenty of water are good ways of making sure you have enough energy. Eating foods with plenty of calcium and taking the right amount of vitamin D can help maintain healthy bones. Your GP can help if you are not sure.
Are you getting enough activity?
Staying active – we are all recommended to take at least 150 mins of exercise a week including strength and balance exercises twice a week. For more information, see the Physical Activity Benefits for Adults and Older Adults leaflet. There are lots of health benefits that come from doing this including reducing the risk of falls.
You can look here for strength and balance exercises suitable for doing at home.
These exercise and activity options can help you stay active and reduce your risk of falls. They are available in Midlothian.
Mid Active Choices – Active Midlothian | Midlothian Active Choices
