Exercise and sports science Australia updated position statement on exercise for preventing falls in older people living in the community

Abstract

BackgroundFalls affect a significant number of older Australians and present a major challenge to health care providers and health systems with over 380 older Australians hospitalised for a fall each day. ObjectiveThis statement seeks to inform and guide exercise practitioners and health professionals in safe and effective prescription of exercise to prevent falls among community-dwelling older people.Exercise prescription to prevent falls.Exercise is crucial for preventing falls in older age. Research evidence has identified that programs which include functional balance and muscle strength training are the most effective in preventing falls. It is also important for exercise to be progressively challenging, ongoing and of sufficient dose to maximise its benefits in reducing falls. Additional (non-exercise) interventions are necessary for people with complex medical conditions, recent hospitalisation and/or particular risk factors not improved by exercise. People at a higher risk of falls may need greater support to undertake safe and effective fall prevention exercise. SummaryGlobal guidelines for fall prevention and management recommend that all older adults should receive advice about exercise to prevent falls. Qualified exercise professionals are well placed to prescribe and supervise functional balance and muscle strength training to older people with varied functional abilities, including those with co-morbidities.