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Give older people the gift of safety – and slippers – this Christmas

A Christmas campaign designed to highlight the risk of falls to older people has been launched by the Cardiff and Vale University Health Board.
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A Christmas campaign designed to highlight the risk of falls to older people has been launched


 Wearing appropriate footwear around the home, such as slippers, could make you less likely to have a fall. 

Slippers for Christmas has been created by Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, with the backing of the charity Age Connects, and urges people to make a present of a new pair of slippers for older family and friends this festive season.

It comes as figures revealed 500 people aged over 65 attend the board’s emergency unit every month due to falls. 

The board says many of the falls are preventable, with old, worn or ill-fitting slippers identified as one of the main causes.

Best Christmas gifts 

Principal health promotion specialist Cheryl Williams said: ‘While anyone is at risk of falling, our chances increase from the age of 65. 

‘However, there are ways you can reduce the risk, including wearing appropriate footwear and improving your strength and balance to make you less likely to have a fall. 

‘The best gifts you can give this Christmas are good health and independence. New slippers for a loved one or neighbour will not only help to avoid falls, but will keep their feet warm during winter.’

Support the campaign on social media using #slippersforchristmas.


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