This simple but effective measure is helping to prevent falls and accidents around the home.
Colin Hayfield
A popular scheme to prevent older people falling over sloppy, ill-fitting slippers is being rolled out across Warwickshire, thanks to the county council’s PHILLIS service.
Falls and fractures are a major cause of disability and mortality for older people in Warwickshire and yet estimates suggest that between 20-30% of falls can be prevented.
Badly fitting slippers significantly increase the risk of an older person falling at home which is why Warwickshire County Council, in conjunction with NHS Warwickshire, Age Concern Warwickshire and other local partners, is launching the scheme county-wide. Although slipper service schemes have worked well in smaller areas of the county, the council was keen to provide an equitable service for all Warwickshire residents aged 50+.
The slipper service aims to replace old slippers with new footwear for only £5 a pair and to provide falls prevention advice. The new slippers are have non-slip soles, good support and a velcro fastening to ensure a snug and tailored fit. Wide fittings are also available but it is imperative that slippers are tried on to make sure the fit is right.
Warwickshire County Council has subsidised the purchase of the slippers and is coordinating the fitting service and distribution in every locality.
If you are interested in the Slipper Service please contact Warwickshire County Council’s PHILLIS Service on 01926 731 142.
Slippers will also be available at all events and surgeries that PHILLIS service brokers attend and a small number will be carried on the Mobile Library buses. The Rural and Home Library Service will also help customers, who may be housebound or infirm, to access the scheme.
Councillor Colin Hayfield, Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care at Warwickshire County Council, said: “This simple but effective measure is helping to prevent falls and accidents around the home.”
Partners in the scheme include Warwickshire County Council’s PHILLIS Service, Warwickshire County Council Mobile Libraries and Library Home Delivery Service, NHS Warwickshire, Podiatry, Age Concern Warwickshire, Healthy Living Network - Nuneaton, Orbit Care and Repair, Rugby, Carers Support Services and Brunswick Healthy Living Centre.