Dozens of people are now more informed about falls thanks to a Falls Awareness open day held in Tauranga this week.

Hosted by Hato Hone St John, and run in partnership with Sport Bay of Plenty, Te Whatu Ora, Body in Motion and ACC, the Falls Awareness open day received dozens of Tauranga residents at the Tauranga Ambulance Station.

Information on exercise, bone health, fall prevention, diet and nutrition, and information about support services.

As well as refreshments, and prizes which includes first aid kits and two ambulance memberships.

According to Age Concern, about one in three people over the age of 65 will have a fall every year.

Older people are more likely to fall because of weaker legs, poor balance, eyesight problems, nutritional deficiencies, hazards in the environment, or side effects from medications.

Last year, 111 call handlers received more than 45,000 calls in relation to falls and back injuries. This was an increase by three per cent compared to 2021, says Hato Hone St John Western Bay of Plenty Community engagement coordinator Berenice Langson.

“Falls are a leading cause of injury in people aged over 65. People can reduce the risk of falls by keeping active, having regular check-ups that includes balance and strength assessments, checking their home for hazards, and through improved nutrition. People concerned about falls can also consider using a St John medical alarm.”

“It is encouraging to see Bay of Plenty residents learning about fall prevention, “We are grateful to our community partners who are helping reduce injury, spread awareness and working to achieve better health outcomes for the Bay of Plenty.”

The organisation delivers more than 60 strength and balance classes across the Bay of Plenty each week through its Keep on Your Feet programme, says Sport Bay of Plenty community programmes project leader Jenagh Jenner.

“These classes provide a regular space for older adults to reduce their risk of a fall, stay active and practice new skills that provide functional benefits at home.The classes are also a great space for regular socialising and many participants come along not just for the health benefits, but also for the friendships.”