Older Milton Keynes residents could stay independent and avoid falls by using new website
A new website launched by the NHS and Milton Keynes City Council aims to help residents reduce their risk of falls, while staying independent and active.
Around 900 residents in Milton Keynes aged 65 and over are admitted to hospital each year after a fall - and this can have a long-lasting impact.
According to the Centre for Ageing Better, only around a quarter of older people regain their previous level of mobility and independence after a fracture.
It can affect confidence, increase loneliness and make everyday tasks more challenging. Fortunately, many falls can be prevented with the right advice, support and early action.
Milton Keynes City Council has partnered with the NHS to create a website offering trusted advice, practical guidance and local services in one easy-to-use place for older adults, their families and carers.
At Steady On Your Feet, people can use a simple online self-assessment to create a personalised action plan which identifies ways to reduce their risk of falls and improve confidence.
There’s practical information on staying active, improving balance and strength, making homes safer, and understanding common causes of falls such as dizziness, medication issues and changes in memory. Residents can also find details of local support services.
Councillor Donna Fuller, Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Communities: “Every year, hundreds of older people in Milton Keynes are admitted to hospital following a fall, but with the right help, many of these incidents can be prevented.
“This new website empowers residents to take simple, positive steps to improve their strength, balance and wellbeing, while also connecting them to trusted local services. We want people in Milton Keynes to live independently, confidently and safely for as long as possible.”
Steady On Your Feet Milton Keynes has been developed through a partnership between Milton Keynes City Council, Milton Keynes University Hospital, Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust and the Central East Integrated Care Board, bringing together local expertise to support residents' health and wellbeing.
Dr Ian Reckless, Chief Medical Officer at Milton Keynes University Hospital: “At MKUH, we see first-hand the significant impact that falls can have on patients' health and wellbeing. Preventing falls is one of the most effective ways to help people stay well, remain active and avoid an unnecessary hospital admission.
“Steady On Your Feet is an excellent resource that brings together trusted advice, practical tools and local support in one easy-to-access place. I encourage anyone who is concerned about the risk of falling to explore the new website and discover the steps they can take to stay safer, stronger and independent for longer.”
Residents, carers and family members can complete the free online self-assessment at https://milton-keynes.steadyonyourfeet.org.