Fall Prevention Programs Sydney

Falls are among the leading causes of injury among older adults. But, there are many ways to prevent future falls and serious injury. Removing potential hazards and maintaining an active lifestyle are among the most popular strategies for fall prevention. But, many communities have formal programs that are more comprehensive and can assist aging adults. Read on for more information about Falls Prevention Programs Sydney older adults can take advantage of.

-Tai Chi

Some communities like Sydney offer exercise programs to help older adults stay balanced. Tai Chi is reported to be an excellent way of reducing or preventing falls among older adults. Tai Chi promotes balance and strength in subtle ways. Tai Chi is especially effective, because it focuses on single leg and dual leg stance, as well as balance and the ability to reach without losing balance. To be effective, Tai Chi must be done at least twice a week, according to researchers. Read more about how Tai Chi can be incorporated into falls prevention programs at https://www.stayonyourfeet.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Voukelatos-RCT-of-Tai-Chi-2007.pdf.

-Home safety measures

It may be obvious to those who work around older adults. But, home safety measures are often overlooked by aging adults and their friends or family members. Keeping pathways in the home free of clutter, wires, and other objects is a start. Keeping area rugs to a minimum can also help. Short rugs can have a tendency to slip or slide, if not secured with two sided tape or if they don’t come with rubber backing. Furniture like chairs and tables with legs that curve outward should be re-positioned, so they are less likely to be caught by the feet and don’t throw the older adult off balance.

-Targeted strengthening

Targeted strengthening programs rely on personal assessment of each older adult, by a professional health care provider or physical therapist. The targeted approach assesses personal strengths and weaknesses of the adult and involves developing a program to specifically address individual needs for strengthening or improvements. For some older adults, programs for conditioning and flexibility are most helpful. Other adults may need specific issues, such as poor vision addressed, so they are better able to navigate and see any potential obstacles in their path.

There are many approaches to preventing falls in older adults. Falls prevention programs Sydney residents can benefit from range from targeted strength training, to group exercise classes for achieving better balance and flexibility. No single program is likely to work for every older person. Therefore, careful consideration of the aging adult’s situation, abilities, and specific challenges should be taken into account, for more effective falls prevention.