The Importance of Balance Training & Exercise In Fall Prevention

As we age our risk of falling increases, and so does our fear of falling again…

In Canada, falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, with 20-30% of seniors experiencing one or more falls each year. Falls also cause 85% of seniors’ injury-related hospitalizations, 95% of all hip fractures, and over one third of seniors are admitted to long-term care following hospitalization for a fall.

The first step to preventing falls is to understand what is causing them? Is it poor balance, decreased muscle and bone strength, or unsafe conditions in and around your home that is increasing your chance of falling? 

Falls can result in chronic pain, reduced mobility, and loss of independence. The good news is that falls are preventable and everyone should take action to reduce their risk of falling, no matter what your age is! At Longevity Nexum we help our clients improve their balance and stability, which improves their confidence when their balance is challenged.

We gradually progress the balance exercises over time as one’s balance improves. One of our favourite balance exercises is balancing on the foam pad on one leg while pressing a kettlebell. Not only does this challenge your balance, but it also improves your core stability and upper body strength when having to pick things up overhead. 

Exercise and fall prevention protocols combined are shown to reduce the risk of falls by approximately 40%.

If you’ve fallen in the past, don’t let the fear of falling again prevent you from being active, as inactivity can lead to an even greater risk of falling! 

Contact us today at 1-800-963-4409 to find out how our Registered Kinesiologists can help you reduce your risk of falling and improve your quality of life!