Free falls prevention advice coming to Welshpool supermarket

Older residents in the Welshpool area worried about the risk of falling at home are being urged to take advantage of free advice and support during Falls Prevention Week.

Care & Repair in Powys is highlighting the issue, warning that one in three people aged 65 or over is at risk of falling, with the likelihood rising to one in two for those aged 80 and above. Falls remain one of the top three reasons for ambulance callouts in Wales.

The charity is offering a free Falls Prevention Service for anyone in Powys aged 60 or over who owns or privately rents their home. The service includes a home visit from a Falls Prevention Officer to assess potential hazards and suggest tailored interventions such as fitting grab rails, stair rails, or removing tripping risks like loose carpets.

Rachel and Glyn (pictured), the organisation’s Falls Prevention Officers, will be at Welshpool Tesco on Tuesday, September 16, from 10am-1pm to speak with residents and answer questions.

A recent case in Brecon showed how effective the scheme can be. Mr Harris, who had grab rails fitted at his front door, said: “We feel so much safer now, knowing we have something to hold onto for support. It is a great service.”

The service is free of charge, with most minor adaptations grant funded.

Anyone unable to attend the supermarket sessions can contact Care & Repair in Powys directly to request a home visit.