The latest Stay On Your Feet falls prevention campaign, Remove Hazards, is coming to Mandurah in September to help minimise the risks of falling for the elderly.
This free community event will include a Remove Hazards Presentation, a live question and answer session with an occupational therapist, optometrist and podiatrist, alongside information stalls and morning tea.
The Remove Hazards campaign aims to raise awareness of the importance of safe environments to prevent falls and to promote healthy ageing, particularly supporting eye and foot health.
Injury Matters injury prevention manager Rachel Meade said by removing hazards a person can reduce their risk of falling exponentially.
"One in three people over the age of 65 have a fall each year, with some resulting in serious injury and hospitalisation, but falls are preventable they don't just happen," she said.
"Simple changes such as replacing torn carpets, removing mats, making sure your home is well lit, your eyesight is healthy and wearing supportive footwear can go a long way to preventing falls in and around the home."
Older adults are encouraged to come along to the community event to learn more about how they can maintain their independence by identifying simple hazards around the home.
"There has not been a lot of opportunity to go to social events lately, we are encouraging people to take the opportunity to get out of the house and come down to this safe community event and learn something new about removing falls hazards. Friends, family and carers are also welcome to attend," Ms Meade said.
Older adults are encouraged to RSVP to Injury Matters on 1300 30 35 40 or at www.eventbrite.com.au/e/remove-hazards-launch-tickets-114250773138 by August 24.
Find out more about the Stay On Your Feet program and how to prevent falls at www.stayonyourfeet.com.au.
