  If you've fallen in the past, making changes to reduce
your chances of having a fall can also help you overcome any
fear of falling.  Some older people may be reluctant to seek
help and advice from their GP and other support services about
preventing falls, because they believe their concerns won't be
taken seriously. However, all healthcare professionals
take falls in older people very seriously because of the
significant impact they can have on a person's health.
Discuss any falls you've had with your GP and say if it's had
any impact on your health and wellbeing. Your GP can carry out
some simple balance tests to check whether you're at
an increased risk of falling in the future. They can also refer
you to useful services in your local area.  Avoiding falls at
home  Tips for preventing falls in the home include:    •
immediately mopping up spillages   • removing clutter, trailing
wires and frayed carpet   • using non-slip mats and rugs   •
using high-wattage light bulbs in lamps and torches, so you can