One You Cheshire East is leading Falls Prevention Awareness Week which starts on Monday (21 September) with events across Cheshire East

Falls are one of the most common causes of injury among older adults and can have a significant impact on confidence, independence, and wellbeing.

Across Cheshire East, an estimated 24,000 falls occur each year among people aged 65 and over, with this figure expected to rise to 29,000 annually as the population ages.

To help tackle this growing issue, and link in with this year's campaign theme 'Right Care, Right Time, Right Place' partners are coming together to deliver a programme of free drop-in events across the campaign week.

And events are taking place in Middlewich, Holmes Chapel and Crewe.

Councillor Jill Rhodes, Cheshire East Council's portfolio holder for adult social care, said: "A fall can have a major impact on someone's confidence and independence, but there are simple steps we can all take to reduce the risk.

These free events are a great opportunity to get expert advice, pick up practical tips and learn about the support available locally.

"I would strongly encourage residents, their families and carers to come along, ask questions and take advantage of this valuable opportunity to help stay active, safe and independent for longer."

The events will provide practical advice, demonstrations and information to help people understand falls risk factors and access local support services designed to help them remain active, confident, and independent.

Residents can attend without booking and will have the opportunity to speak directly with healthcare professionals and falls prevention specialists, learn simple exercises to improve strength and balance and discover ways to make their homes safer.

Information stands will include:

• Bone health
• Getting up from the floor
• Nutrition and hydration
• Physical activity and lifestyle
• Foot care
• Handyperson services and home safety; and
• Blood pressure checks.

Attendees will also receive refreshments and a free goody bag packed with useful information and resources.

Event dates and locations:

• Monday 21 September - 10am to 12pm Crewe Lifestyle Centre, Moss Square, Crewe CW1 2BB
• Tuesday 22 September - 2pm to 3pm Middlewich Methodist Church, 108 Booth Lane, Middlewich CW10 0EF
• Thursday 24 September – 11am to 1pm Holmes Chapel Community Centre, Station Road, Holmes Chapel CW4 8AA.

These events are open to anyone wanting to reduce their risk of falling, improve their mobility, or learn more about maintaining strength and balance as they age.

Family members, carers, community organisations, and healthcare professionals are also encouraged to attend to learn more about supporting falls prevention in their communities or to support a family member/ friend they are concerned about.

Research shows that falls are often preventable, yet many risk factors can go unnoticed. Local data highlights that fall-related hospital admissions are higher among females than males, ambulance call-outs for falls are more common during the morning, and more than half of adults are not meeting recommended strength activity guidelines.

For more information about the week, check out the website here or call 0300 123 5026.