PUBLIC health and adult social care bosses are handing out advice to residents on how to reduce the risk of a fall as part of Older Person's Day on Saturday.

The Department of Health estimates that each year 35 per cent of people aged 65 plus and 45 per cent of those aged 80 years and over, who live in the community, fall at least once.

Of those that fall, between 10 and 25 per cent sustain a serious injury.

It is also estimated that each year in England more than 223,000 people over 60 get a fracture as a result of a fall – more than the entire population of Warrington.

Cllr Pat Wright, executive board member for adult social care, said: "The consequences of a fall for an individual and their family can be devastating.

"It can lead to a reduction in confidence, an increase in isolation and reduced mobility and independence.

"Many older people who suffer a fall are then afraid to leave their homes in case it happens again.

"It's really important that we all look out for ourselves and for our elderly relatives, friends and neighbours, by taking steps to eliminate risks that could cause a fall."

Information about falls will be handed out at St Elphin's Community Centre on Monday from noon to 2pm and at The Old School in Fairfield next Friday, October 7, from noon to 2.30pm.

For further information call 443193 or 444239.