April is ‘falls prevention month’, so it’s a good time to have a think about how older folk can keep themselves upright, to maintain their independence, wellbeing and quality of life.
Falls are a major cause of injury and disability among older folk, with the risk of falling increasing with age. ACC report that approximately 30% of people aged 65 and over fall annually, and one in three injure themselves in that fall. This figure increases to one in two from the age of 80. Overall, between 10 and 20 percent of those over 65 need hospitalisation after a fall. Many falls are preventable through ensuring a safe home, a healthy diet and keeping on top of strength and balance. www.livestronger.org.nz has plenty of tips and check lists for keeping the home trip free. To maintain dietary health, try to eat 3 meals or several smaller meals daily, rich in calcium and protein, and work on a minimum of five portions of fruit and fresh or frozen veggies. Staying hydrated is also an essential part of your diet. Make sure you are drinking plenty of fluids each day and increase that during warmer weather.
Many falls are preventable through ensuring a safe home, a healthy diet and keeping on top of strength and balance.
Community based strength and balance classes have been well researched and proven to be successful regarding improving leg strength and preventing falls. These programmes are held in local community spaces to make them accessible and are facilitated by peers from within the community. An advantage of peer led classes is their caring culture and resulting social connectedness.
To find one of these classes, have a look in local papers, on www.thecommunity.co.nz/events/region/Wellington/ or contact Age Concern Wairarapa (06 377 0066 or www.ageconcernwai.org.nz) about our Steady As You Go (SAYGO), our KeepFit or our Line Dancing classes…all only $2 to participate.
