​​The purpose of this program is to reduce the incidence of falls among seniors by promoting strength, balance, home safety, and awareness, thus enhancing their quality of life and independence.

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This 8-week program is designed for older adults focusing on building strength, improving balance, educating participants on home safety, and fostering a supportive community environment. It combines physical exercise with educational workshops. 

 

Target Audience
•    Seniors aged 65 and older who are living independently or with minimal assistance
•    Seniors who have experienced a fall or are concerned about falling
•    Individuals with conditions that affect mobility, such as arthritis, diabetes, or vision issues

 

We are offering an 8-week program of 2 x 45-minute sessions per week to be held at the Briagolong Mechanics’ Institute, 9/11 Avon St, Briagolong VIC 3860.

 

​Class size is capped at 12 participants due to the available space.

 

Our first program for 2025 is scheduled to begin on Wednesday 5th February.

Here are some key benefits:

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1. Reduced Risk of Injury
•    Prevention of fractures and head injuries: This program teach seniors about maintaining balance and avoiding fall hazards, helping to reduce incidents of serious injuries such as hip fractures and traumatic brain injuries.

 

2. Improved Strength and Mobility
•    Exercise and balance training: This program incorporates physical activities focused on improving strength, flexibility, and balance. The exercises help reduce the risk of falls by making the body more stable and responsive.

 

3. Increased Confidence and Independence
•    Psychological benefits: Many seniors develop a fear of falling after an incident, leading to reduced physical activity and social engagement. This program aims to build confidence by empowering them with tools and techniques to reduce their risk.

•    Maintaining independence: Preventing falls enables seniors to maintain their autonomy and continue performing daily tasks without relying heavily on others for assistance. It also enables seniors the opportunity to remain in their own home longer.

 

4. Better Overall Health
•    Enhanced physical health: Engaging in regular, tailored exercise through this program helps improve cardiovascular health, bone density, and muscle strength.

•    Improved mental well-being: Social interaction and physical activity in this program can reduce loneliness and boost mental health.

 

5. Social Engagement

•    Community involvement: This program involves group activities that encourage seniors to engage with others, reducing isolation and promoting a sense of community.

 

6. Cost Savings
•    Reduction in healthcare costs: By preventing falls and related injuries, this program can reduce the need for emergency services, surgeries, and prolonged hospital stays, ultimately leading to lower healthcare costs for both individuals and the healthcare system.

•    Lower personal financial burden: Minimising the risk of falls decreases out-of-pocket expenses for seniors related to rehabilitation, home modifications, or long-term care.

 

Program Structure:

1. Initial Assessment
•    Fall Risk Screening: Participants undergo an initial screening to assess their fall risk. This includes checking balance, gait, and mobility using standardised tests like the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test.

•    Health Assessment: Review of medical conditions and medications that may contribute to fall risks, along with a discussion about any previous falls.

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2. Exercise Classes 
•    Duration: 60 minutes per session

•    Focus: Strength, balance, and flexibility exercises designed for seniors, including:
          o    Balance Training: Standing on one leg, tandem walking, and heel-to-toe exercises.
          o    Strengthening Exercises: Chair squats, leg lifts, and resistance band workouts to strengthen muscles critical                  for stability.
          o    Flexibility & Stretching: Gentle stretches to improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness.

          o    Coordination Drills: Simple tasks like stepping over objects or walking backwards to challenge coordination.
 

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