When we are young, we are constantly told how exercise is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and grow up to be strong men and women. But as we become older, life gets in the way and we often forget to continue to exercise. This isn’t good enough. Exercise, strength, and balance are crucial factors in reducing the risk of falling as we become older, and assisting us to live independently as we become older.
41% of over 70s don’t realise how important good strength and balance is to reduce falls, according to new research commissioned by the Centre for Ageing Better. Each year, around 30% of people aged 65 and over will have a fall, which can result in serious injury.
The research carried out by the Centre for Ageing Better, shows just how many of us don’t know what activities are better for improving our strength and balance. Louise Ansari, Director of Communications and Programme Director for Physical Activity at the Centre for Ageing Better, said: “It is a sad state of affairs that there are over 250,000 emergency admissions of older people to hospital for falls every year, when so many falls and fractures could be prevented by simple exercises that improve people’s strength and balance.”
Would patients within your Care Home benefit from exercise classes or activities to improve strength and balance? Even if patients are at a lower risk of falling than others, it is still important for them to be included and have a go. Soft yoga classes could be made available once a week, or dance classes something simple to re-awaken the muscles, whilst still enjoying their time. For something tailored for those who like to be outdoors, a game of Bowls at the local park, or gardening on the ground of the home can also get movement flowing.
Something is better than nothing, it is better to gradually build up just 10 minutes at a time before more can be done.
Professor Kevin Fenton, Public Health England National Director for Health and Wellbeing, said: “Falls can pose a very serious health issue for older people and often lead to a loss of confidence and independence.”
Harvest Healthcare supply, Fall Protection Equipment, which can assist patients at a higher risk of falling. Accompanying the Vigilant Falls Reduction System, along with a twice weekly exercise regime could have the desired effect of reducing the number of falls within your Care Home, or even in Sheltered Housing.
For more Information about Harvest Healthcare please click here
For more news please visit our Twitter Page Here
Or follow us on LinkedIn Here
