Milton Keynes City Council has partnered with the NHS to launch a new website aimed at helping residents reduce their risk of falls, stay active and maintain their independence.
In Milton Keynes, around 900 residents aged 65 and over are admitted to hospital each year following a fall. 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. The impact 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.
Steady On Your Feet brings together trusted advice, practical guidance and local services in one easy-to-use place for older adults, their families and carers.
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.
“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.”
“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.”
“Falls can have a significant impact on a person's confidence, independence and overall wellbeing. The new Steady On Your Feet platform makes it easier than ever for residents, carers and professionals to access trusted advice and local support in one place. As a key partner in this initiative, CNWL is proud to support a resource that will help more people stay active, independent and safe in their own homes.”
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.
Residents, carers and family members can complete the free online self-assessment at: https://milton-keynes.steadyonyourfeet.org