Older people across Newham have been urged to take simple steps to remove potential trip hazards in their homes as part of National Falls Awareness week.

Nationally, one in three over 65s suffers a fall each year which can not only seriously hurt older people but costs the NHS an estimated £4.6m a day.

Falls remain a major cause of injury and death amongst the over 70s and account for more than 50 per cent of hospital admissions for accidental injury.

NHS Newham Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), Newham Council and other partners are using National Falls Awareness Week, between June 23 and 29, to highlight the support and services available to reduce the chance of older people falling and seriously injuring themselves.

Dr Zuhair Zarifa, local GP and chair of NHS Newham Clinical Commissioning Group said: “Older people falling over is too often dismissed as an inevitable part of the ageing process. The reality is there are a number of things that can be done to prevent falls, such as exercises to improve strength and balance. I encourage older people, caregivers, and family members to think of ways that they can prevent falls.”

Councillor Clive Furness, mayoral advisor for adults and health, said: “We want to help as many people as possible to continue living as independently as possible as they get older. Empowering people to be able to do this maintains their confidence and their well being.

“As a council our role is to provide all of the tools to help people live longer, healthier and independent lives. This could be through helping make changes to people’s homes or encouraging them to take up regular exercise.

“If we can take simple steps to help older people avoid falls we can cut down on one of the biggest reasons they need to receive medical help. This not only relieves the pressure on our emergency services but helps people live their lives to the full as much as possible.”