One in three people aged over 65 fall each year. Photo: Murrumbidgee Local Health District.
Young Mercy Care Centre and Murrumbidgee Local Health District have partnered to deliver a falls prevention program in Harden that will increase confidence and safety for older people.
A free NSW Ministry of Health initiative, the Steppin On falls program will run two hours a week for seven weeks from Tuesday, 19 July at Harden Hospital Hospital. It will be followed by a refresher session two months later.
Falls pose a significant cost to the community and the health system with one in three people aged over 65 falling each year.
Stepping On facilitator Lauren McRae said the program helps older people keep their independence.
“It gives older people confidence in their mobility, so they are able to go about their daily activities safely and without the fear of falling,” she said.
Stepping On is a practical, evidence-based program proven to reduce falls in older people living in the community by 31 per cent.
Designed for people living at home who have fallen or fear falling, it incorporates strategies to implement positive lifestyle changes that help keep them independent, upright and active.
The program includes simple group exercises to improve strength and balance and education on various topics such as vision, home hazards and medicines. It is also an opportunity to socialise with other participants.
Stepping On has been rolled out in more than 30 communities across the Murrumbidgee Local Health District.
The seven-week course of weekly sessions will be held at the Harden Hospital at 1:30 pm from 19 July.
For further information or to book, call the Mercy Care Centre on 6382 8444.
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