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14 | THE REVIEW SEPTEMBER 2026 Managing falls and balance challenges Respecting your limits, pacing your energy, and creating supportive environments allows you to live more freely. By AMY HOGAN and PETER RAWLINGS Falling is something many people with Cerebral Palsy (CP) – Hōkai Nukurangi know well. Whether you walk, use sticks, a walker, or a wheelchair, balance and stability can be unpredictable. Each fall is unique, bringing physical, emotional, and social challenges. While falls can’t always be prevented, we can reduce the risk of injury, recover safely, and rebuild confidence afterwards. For people who walk, uneven ground, fatigue, or sudden turns can cause imbalance. For wheelchair users, obstacles such as potholes, steep slopes, curbs, and gradients can also increase the risk of tipping or falling. Practical tips You don’t have to eliminate every risk to live well. Small habits can make a big difference whether you walk, use a walking aid, a manual wheelchair or a power chair. Reduce hazards by keeping floors free of cords, loose rugs and clutter; clearing leaves and moss from outdoor areas; wearing footwear or socks with good grip; using non-slip mats; installing grab rails and maintaining fixtures and equipment. A common trouble spot is the bathroom, so make sure toilet seats are secure and hinges are sturdy. Regularly check the rubber feet on walking sticks, crutches and walkers, replacing them when worn. Changing surfaces, such as moving from carpet to tiles, or FEATURE standing from a low chair can affect balance. Pause, steady yourself, and then move on. Avoid multitasking on unfamiliar routes or in poor weather. Take extra care on slopes, curbs, corners, loose gravel, narrow paths, potholes, and uneven utility covers. Fatigue also affects coordination so if you feel unsteady, stop and rest before continuing. Give clear instructions to helpers and explain what hurts. If you suspect a serious injury, staywhere you are and seek medical help.