April is falls prevention month, and people over 65 are being urged to stay active to improve their strength, balance, and resilience. 

The number of older people experiencing falls and fall-related injuries is growing. Still, exercise can be your ticket to staying on your feet, thanks to the Better Balance program. 

Gippsland Lakes Complete Health’s exercise physiologist Nara Venkatesan says falls prevention strategies have been shown to reduce the incidence and risk of falls and that the right exercise programs can cut the rate of falls among older people by up to 25 per cent. 

“Falls are a major health issue in the community, with around 30 per cent of adults over 65 experiencing at least one fall per year,” he said. 

“Exercise may also reduce fall-related injuries, such as the risk of sustaining fall-related bone fractures.”  

GLCH’s movement therapies team runs the Better Balance program, a campaign to help older people improve their mobility, reduce fear of falls and live independently for longer.

Better Balance includes assessment before and after the eight-week program, including two specialised exercise sessions per week, five education sessions with allied health professionals and a home exercise guide. 

Course participants are also encouraged to return to the program after 12 months for a refresher on what they have learned and to help maintain their skills.

To learn more about April Falls Month and how you can avoid becoming a statistic, contact GLCH’s movement therapies team on 5155 8370.