Falls Prevention & Independence.

Falls are the leading cause of injury for those over 65, often leading to pain, trauma, and loss of independence. Our small group classes focus on improving balance, strength, and posture, targeting the muscles essential for walking. Participants learn practical strategies to prevent falls, reduce fear, and increase activity levels. The program combines exercise, group problem-solving, and education to manage to build strength, confidence and independence.

Benefits of Falls Prevention.

Increased Confidence

Learning safe fall techniques increases confidence in moving around the home, helping you maintain independence and peace of mind.

Increased Quality of Life

Fear of falling can lead to social isolation and further muscle weakness, increasing fall risk. Attending group classes not only helps prevent falls but also boosts social engagement, mental well-being, and overall quality of life.

Improve Balance and Stability

Strengthening lower limb and back muscles enhances balance, reducing the likelihood of falls and helping you remain self-reliant.

Muscle Strengthening

Strengthening muscles crucial for walking, balance, and posture can reduce fall risk by up to 85%, supporting your ability to stay active and self-sufficient.

Increased Confidence

Learning safe fall techniques increases confidence in moving around the home, helping you maintain independence and peace of mind.

Increased Social Engagement

Being part of a small, supportive group encourages social interaction and a sense of community, all within a safe environment that enhances your confidence and well-being.

Program Outline.

The program starts with an initial in-home consultation and a structured and engaging seven-week course. This format provides ample time to build connection, community, strength, and independence.

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  • Our falls prevention program starts with an initial consultation in your home, where our occupational therapists evaluate individual factors that may contribute to fall risk. This assessment considers aspects such as cognitive and emotional well-being, sensory abilities, bladder and bowel health, environmental safety, medication use, and physical abilities. We may also recommend specific products and equipment to support safety and reduce the risk of falls.

  • In the first week, we focus on building trust, sharing program goals, and introducing you to the clinic and equipment. During this time, we discuss the importance of strength, mobility, and safe movement and begin with exercises designed to improve balance and build strength.

  • During this week, we will practice exercises on the reformer to build strength and mobility. We will also explore the barriers and benefits of regular exercise, learn safe movement techniques for everyday activities such as using chairs and steps, and provide guidance on how to respond and recover after a fall.

  • In week three, we will continue to practice your strengthening and mobility exercises. We will also identify common hazards in and around your home and work on problem-solving strategies to address these risks effectively.

  • This week, we will focus on learning about the features of safe footwear and how to avoid clothing-related hazards. Additionally, we will develop strategies to navigate the local community safely. We will continue to build strength within the clinic.

  • This week, we will explore how vision affects fall risk and discuss strategies to address vision-related challenges. We will also learn about the role of Vitamin D, sunlight, and calcium in preventing fall-related injuries. We will continue to enhance our strength and confidence in the studio.

  • This week, we will identify medication-related fall risks and explore alternatives to minimize these risks. We will also discuss behavioural and sleep strategies as alternatives to sedatives. Additionally, we'll review exercises and practice safe mobility techniques outdoors, continuing to enhance your strength and balance.

  • In the final week, we will recap the key learnings from the 7-week program and celebrate our progress with a group social event to build community and reflect on our achievements.

A word from your therapist.

Hello, I’m Carleen the Occupational Therapist running this program.

I am deeply passionate about my work, mainly supporting older adults, preventing falls, and fostering independence. I’m incredibly grateful to combine this passion with my love for movement, helping people live fully and as they wish. Enhancing independence profoundly impacts someone's quality of life, and age should never be overlooked. I genuinely love this program and the positive change it brings. Looking forward to meeting soon and please don’t hesitate to contact the team if you have any questions.

 FAQs

  • Our program is designed for anyone concerned about falling, whether for themselves or a loved one, or for those who have experienced a fall in the past.

    During the initial assessment, our occupational therapist will determine if the group class is appropriate for you. If they believe a group setting is not suitable, we may recommend one-on-one or two-on-one therapy sessions to improve safety and independence before transitioning into the program.

  • The 7-week program is limited to 4 participants per group to ensure safety and maintain high-quality care.

  • We have two upcoming programs scheduled to begin on Friday 4th, October. The dates are as follows:

    • Week One: 11th October

    • Week Two: 18th October

    • Week Three: 25th October

    • Week Four: 2nd November

    • Week Five: 9th November

    • Week Six: 16th November

    Classes are scheduled for Friday 3 pm.

    The following program will commence the 23rd and be a condensed 5 week program to account for Christmas.

  • The sessions last 45 minutes. Typically, we start with 15-20 minutes of discussing educational management techniques, followed by the remaining time focused on using equipment and practising movement patterns to support fall prevention and safe movement.

  • The initial consultation is 30 minutes plus 30 minutes for summary writing, totaling $140.

    Weekly sessions cost $55 each, totaling $385 for the 7-week program.

    Costs may be covered by private health insurance, Medicare pain management plans, My Aged Care, ACAT, or NDIS funding. Please check with your provider regarding your level of cover or plan. If you're interested in one of these funding options but are unsure, please contact us.

  • Classes may be eligible for coverage under private health insurance, Medicare pain management plans, My Aged Care, ACAT, or NDIS funding. Please check with your provider to confirm your specific coverage. If you have any questions, please contact us.

  • Yes, we offer ongoing home services as identified in your home consultation. If you would like more information, please email us at info@pacetherapy.com.au.

  • To sign up, please email info@pacetherapy.com.au with the subject line "Falls Prevention Program" to arrange an initial consultation.