The local health board has shared advice with Cowbridge residents on reducing the risk of falls for elderly residents.

This week (12-18 July) is Falls Awareness Week, and CAVUHB is highlighting the importance of educating our communities about how older people can reduce the risk of falls.

A third of all older people aged over 65 will have a fall every year, say CAVUHB.

"It can have a major impact on their lives both physically and emotionally. But falls are not an inevitable part of growing older and there are many ways to reduce risks."

To raise awareness, local schools have taken part in an intergenerational programme called the 'Staying Steady Schools project'.

Since the project was launched in 2018, over 500 children have taken part in the sessions, including pupils from Wick and Marcross Church in Wales Primary School and St Brides Major Church in Wales Primary School.

The sessions highlight the risks that are associated with falls, and how these risks can be reduced. Engaging children in the delivery of the messages to older adults has enabled this to be done in a fun and interactive way.

The local health board also provides a 'Stay Steady Clinic', a service focused on providing tailored support and advice to individuals who are worried about falling or feeling a little unsteady on their feet.

The clinics are available to all residents in the Vale of Glamorgan, with a dedicated team of falls specialist physiotherapists on hand to assess an individual's risk of falling and the recommendations to take.

The clinics are delivered over the phone, face-to-face or via a secure video link. After a detailed assessment, an action plan is created with exercises and advice to reduce risks. The Stay Steady Clinic aims to support individuals in feeling more confident doing daily activities and help prevent falls.

For more Falls Prevention information and resources, download the free Falls Awareness Week information leaflet by clicking here.

If you would like to find out more about the Stay Steady Clinic call the team on 029 2183 2552 or email [email protected].