Falls are a common concern as we get older, but they are not inevitable and there is much that can be done to reduce the chance of a fall, even if you have already had one. Strengthening and balance activities and exercises will help reduces the risk of falls. Many everyday house and garden related tasks help build muscle strength.

• Visit Somerset Age UK's Stay Strong Stay Steady - strength and balance classes
• Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership have videos for chair based exercises
• Simple balance exercises from the NHS
• Stronger my way has advice and exercises to improve strength and balance
• Eat well
• Keep active
• Look after your feet
• Look after your eyes
• Get your hearing tested
• Get your medication reviewed
• Minor illness, injuries or physiotherapy
• Find your local adult social care services
• If you need help with normal daily activites after illness or injury

A fall can have a serious psychological effect on you, robbing you of your independence and leading to increased isolation.

The slowing-down process of later life affects our balance and makes our muscles weaker. This increases the risk of falling. But both balance and muscle strength will be improved simply by exercise, looking after your health and wellbeing and reviewing your medication.

Dizzy spells or faints can be related to too much medication and should be discussed with your GP or pharmacist.