Healthy Bones, Healthy Balance Program

Are you feeling unsteady on your feet and losing your balance? Or Are you worried about osteoporosis?

Our next 8 weeks program starts on Thursday 22nd of September 2011

Research has shown 1 in 4 Queenslanders aged 65 years and over reported having a fall during the year. Of these individuals, 45% had reported more than one fall in this time and 1 in 10 were, admitted to hospital for treatment (1). These statistics are concerning many health and government agencies with the population of Australia aging it is thought the number of falls will increase in the future costing the nation millions of dollars every year.

So why do people fall?

The risk of falling can be associated with impaired balance which is a part of the natural aging process. Other issues that can impact on balance and result in preventable falls are:

• Impaired gait (walking) and reduced stride length
• Reduced muscle strength and muscle mass
• Slowed reaction time
• Use of multiple medications
• Poor visual contrast sensitivity
• Impaired depth perception
• Eye diseases
• Reduced confidence and self-esteem
• Fear of falling

So is there an up-side?

On a positive note a majority of falls could be prevented and the severity of injuries could be significantly reduced if the elderly completed regular physical activity and balance training. With specific balance and strength training the body’s ability to balance can be maintained or improved. The most advantageous way to improve balance and reduce the risk of falling is to take part in fully supervised programs which teach you correct movements and balancing drills.

At Coordinated Fitness, we have tertiary educated Accredited Exercise Physiologists who have the knowledge and ability to prescribe and supervise falls prevention exercise programs. Individuals aged between 65 and 85 years readily participate in falls prevention programs and have progressed significantly since commencing our exercise sessions. All of our programs are tailored to suit your personal needs and goals to ensure the best possible results are achieved. For further information please call 07 3901 2083.