Injury Matters’ Stay On Your Feet® program provides free online learning modules for older adults. The Move Your Body module allows you to increase awareness and knowledge of the importance of strength and balance for healthy ageing and preventing falls.
You may have read the ABC news article on the 10th of March, The ”Silver Tsunami” highlighting the increasing pressure on hospitals from older adults admitted with fall-related injuries. In Western Australia, one in three adults over the age of 65 have a fall each year. Every 15 minutes, someone was admitted to the hospital following a fall-related injury in 2021. Falls can lead to long-term injuries, a loss of independence and confidence and reduced quality of life.
Strong legs and good balance are needed for everyday activities, such as getting out of a chair, walking up and down stairs, pushing the shopping trolley, or even waltzing around the kitchen.
As part of the natural ageing process, balance and strength can begin to decline from age 40, which influences the risk of having a fall. The good news is that strength and balance exercises are one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk of falls, no matter your age!
The Move Your Body online learning module will equip you with information and tools to help you understand how to improve balance and posture, strengthen muscles and bones, and improve overall fitness and general well-being. All the exercises can be done at home at your own pace.
The online module is designed for your convenience and can be accessed from any device – whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer. Remember good balance and strength will help you prevent falls so you can stay strong and independent!