Falls Prevention
We have a Falls Prevention team because the effects of a fall on an older person can be devastating. Falls are a major cause of disability and the leading cause of mortality due to injury in older people aged over 75 in the UK.
However, the effects are not only physical, a fall can have a serious psychological effect on older people, robbing them of their independence and leading to increased isolation.
Thankfully there are many things that can be done to prevent falls from happening!
Strength, flexibility, balance and reaction times are considered the most readily modifiable risk factors for falls.
We offer Strong and Steady sessions, specially developed classes that help to improve strength and balance. They can give you greater confidence, reduce the risk of having a fall and help you to stay independent as you get older.
Age UK Somerset offers two tiers of Strong and Steady classes, so you can participate at a level that is right for you.
The 'Stay Strong Stay Steady' (Otago) exercise programme is designed specifically to prevent falls, consisting of leg muscle strengthening, balance retraining exercises (progressing in difficulty) and a walking plan.
We now also offer a new 16 week programme called 'Get Strong Get Steady' which is aimed at those with more advanced mobility issues and is the perfect precursor to the 'Stay Strong Stay Steady' classes.
Exercise and Falls Prevention Manager Job Vacancy
We are seeking an experienced manager with a passion for exercise and wellbeing and an appreciation of how it can support older people to live longer better. Strength, balance and staying active are at the core of our Ageing Well and Falls Prevention service. Taking part in group exercise and maintaining a level of strength and balance is vital for older people to reduce the effect of age-related decline, maintain independent living, wellbeing and reduce isolation. This is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives!