Supporting Health, Wellbeing and Independence

Frailty can affect strength, mobility, confidence and overall wellbeing. Although frailty becomes more common with age, it is not an inevitable part of ageing and can often be improved with the right support, guidance and lifestyle changes. This guide provides practical advice to help maintain independence, reduce frailty and improve quality of life.

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What Is Frailty?

Frailty describes a reduced ability to recover from illness, injury or changes in health.

People living with frailty may be more vulnerable to:

• Falls
• Infections
• Reduced mobility
• Loss of confidence
• Hospital admissions
• Changes in physical and mental wellbeing

Frailty often develops gradually and may not be noticed until symptoms become more obvious.

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Staying Steady and Preventing Falls

Falls can have a significant impact on independence and confidence.

Simple Ways to Reduce Falls Risk

• Keep active regularly
• Have your eyes tested
• Review medications if needed
• Wear well-fitting footwear
• Look after your feet
• Stay hydrated
• Keep your home free from trip hazards

Regular movement and exercise can help improve strength, balance and confidence.

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Keep Moving

Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to maintain independence.

Benefits include:

• Improved strength
• Better balance
• Increased flexibility
• Greater confidence
• Reduced risk of falls
• Improved mood and wellbeing

Even small amounts of activity can make a difference. Activities such as walking, gardening, stretching, chair exercises and dancing can help keep you active.

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Creating a Safe Home Environment

Making small changes around the home can help support independence.

Helpful Tips

• Keep walkways clear
• Remove trip hazards
• Improve lighting
• Use handrails where needed
• Keep frequently used items within easy reach
• Consider grab rails in bathrooms
• Ensure your home is warm and well maintained

A safer home environment can reduce the risk of falls and help you remain independent for longer.

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Managing Pain

Pain can affect mobility, confidence and daily activities.

Helpful Advice

• Seek advice if pain affects your daily life
• Take prescribed pain relief as directed
• Stay active where possible
• Pace activities throughout the day
• Discuss persistent pain with a healthcare professional

Managing pain effectively can help maintain mobility and quality of life.

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Looking After Bladder and Bowel Health

Continence issues are common and support is available.

To Help Manage Symptoms

• Drink enough water throughout the day
• Avoid bladder irritants where appropriate
• Prevent constipation
• Seek advice for new or worsening symptoms
• Discuss concerns with a healthcare professional

Good bladder and bowel health can help reduce falls risk and improve wellbeing.

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Caring for Your Skin

Healthy skin plays an important role in maintaining health and comfort.

Remember To

• Move regularly
• Change position frequently
• Keep skin clean and moisturised
• Check skin daily
• Report sore areas or breaks in the skin

Early action can help prevent pressure injuries and skin damage.

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Eating Well and Staying Hydrated

Good nutrition helps maintain muscle strength, energy levels and overall health.

Aim To

• Eat regular balanced meals
• Include protein-rich foods
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Drink 6–8 glasses of fluid each day
• Seek advice if you are losing weight unintentionally

Good nutrition and hydration can help support strength, mobility and recovery.

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Supporting Memory and Mental Wellbeing

Looking after mental wellbeing is just as important as physical health.

Helpful Strategies

• Follow a daily routine
• Stay socially connected
• Keep physically active
• Reduce distractions when concentrating
• Use reminders and memory aids
• Seek support if you are concerned about memory changes

Staying mentally active and connected can support independence and quality of life.

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Sleeping Well

Good sleep is important for physical and mental wellbeing.

Tips for Better Sleep

• Keep a regular routine
• Ensure your bedroom is comfortable
• Stay active during the day
• Limit caffeine later in the day
• Allow time to relax before bed
• Avoid long daytime naps

Improving sleep can help increase energy levels and support overall health.

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Small Changes Can Make a Big Difference

Maintaining independence often comes from making small, achievable changes.

Remember:

• Stay active
• Eat well
• Stay hydrated
• Ask for help when needed
• Set realistic goals
• Keep connected with others

Frailty is not always a one-way process, and many people can improve their strength, confidence and independence with the right support.

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Further Information Available

This webpage provides a summary of advice for maintaining independence and reducing frailty.

The full guide includes:

• Falls prevention advice
• Strength and balance exercises
• Home safety guidance
• Continence advice
• Skin care information
• Nutrition and hydration guidance
• Memory and wellbeing support
• Sleep advice

For complete guidance, exercises and practical tools, please download the full guide.