OAPs warned on risks of icy pavements

Published on Monday 16 February 2009 09:21

A PROGRAMME has been launched to educate elderly people on the risks of falling on icy pavements.

The scheme was introduced in response to the high number of people who reported to casualty having slipped on the Lothians' pavements in recent years.

In Midlothian, pensioners will be given exercise regimes to improve balance, advice on hazards both indoor and outdoor, and about what to do after a fall.

The NHS Lothian Stepping Into Midlothian programme, which lasts for seven weeks, will also build confidence in those who are reluctant to go out after a fall.

Health board physiotherapist Lynsay Halliday said: "The importance of the Stepping Into Midlothian service is clear from the scale of the problem.

"It is estimated that one in three adults over the age of 60 will have a fall of some kind in any given year, and this number rises for those aged 80-plus.

"Not everyone who falls injures themselves, but injury is just one of the possible consequences of a fall. Falls can also result in loss of mobility, loss of confidence and a fear of falling again."

For more information on the programme phone Ms Halliday on 07876 217 177.