MOONEE Valley residents have been encouraged to take advantage of a new initiative aimed at preventing falls in the home by people with a disability and older residents.
Free home safety inspections are available for aged pensioners, people with a disability and carers to help identify and address potential hazards that may lead to a fall.
The inspections are conducted by Archicentre, the building advisory service of the Australian Institute of Architects, and are funded by the state government through the Department of Human Services.
Of the 952 Moonee Valley houses inspected by Archicentre to date, 37per cent had significant trip or slip hazards.
Moonee Valley's community services and partnerships councillor, Miriam Gillis, urged those at risk to take advantage of the free offer.
"Sadly, falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths and hospital admissions in older people, and most of the falls occur in the home," Cr Gillis said.
"Not only that, but falling in your home can be traumatic both physically and mentally."
The council also provides assistance in general home maintenance and minor repairs for frail aged residents and residents with a disability.
For more information on the home maintenance program, call 9243 8806 or click here.
To register for the state government's free home safety inspection, call 1300 136 513.