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Falls Prevention Programs
Falls are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in older adults. In fact, falls are the leading cause of hospitalisations for people over 65 years of age. Even without injury, falls often lead to a significant decline in function due to the ongoing “fear of falls”, which many older adults experience post-fall.
It’s important that we take a proactive approach to falls prevention. Older adults should be encouraged to participate in exercise programs or activities known to reduce falls risk. This may be a structured group exercise program, tai chi or dancing classes. When it comes to falls management, prevention is better than cure. There can be catastrophic consequences of falls, so working to reduce falls risk or falls incidence should always be our priority.
Guide’s falls prevention programs can be implemented on a one-on-one basis or as part of a group exercise program. They are designed to use the latest research on exercise-based interventions to control falls risk coupled with a ‘common-sense’ approach to managing extrinsic falls risk factors. We also include an education component to ensure our clients are up to date with the best ways to keep themselves safe. This may include encouraging them to talk to their doctor about their current medications, have a home review completed by an occupational therapist, or a footwear review from a podiatrist.
Guide’s Falls Prevention Exercise Program Includes:
Comprehensive assessment of falls risk and associated risk factors
Lower limb strengthening, including use of resistance training principles
Upper limb strengthening, including preparing for a fall
Static and dynamic balance exercises incorporating functional tasks
Perturbation training and reactionary stepping
Dual-tasking training and activity-specific exercises
Floor mat exercises and standing up from the floor
Education and training on falls management strategies
Our programs are grounded in the latest falls prevention research, including the OTAGO and SUNBEAM exercise programs, with the latter proven to reduce fall rates by 55% in residential aged care. The OTAGO and SUNBEAM research achieved success in reducing falls rates through consistent strengthening and balance exercises.
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02 9663 0387