AN EVENT focusing on combating the problem of elderly people suffering falls is to be held in Basingstoke.

Consultant geriatrician Dr Juanita Pascual and specialist falls co-ordinator Jill Phipps are to host the event on the evening of Monday, January 26, at Parklands Hospital, in Aldermaston Road.

Specialist advice on preventing and dealing with falls will be given at the event, as well as advice on maintaining an active lifestyle, how to tackle loneliness and advice on nutrition.

After the presentation, a question-and-answer session will be held in which people can ask Dr Pascual about any of the topics covered.

The event is open to anyone looking for more information, either for themselves or for elderly relatives.

Dr Pascual said: “Winter can be a tough time for the elderly but there are lots of very simple things they can do that can make a big difference.

“Keeping active, eating well and learning to spot the signs of different conditions can all help to empower them to stay independent over the colder months.

“Giving them the tools they need to maintain that independence is really important, and a large part of what we do. I’m really looking forward to meeting everyone and answering their questions.”

The events are part of an initiative led by Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust to bring local communities together to learn more about their health and what affects them.

To book a place for the event, which will run from 5.30pm until 7.30pm, call 023 8087 4253 or email communications@southernhealth.nhs.uk.