New wellness centre launches falls reduction program

Catholic Healthcare’s newest wellness centre has launched a falls risk reduction program for CHSP and home care clients in south-western Sydney.

The Walking with Confidence program is now operating out of the wellness centre based at Catholic Healthcare’s new Holy Spirit Residential Aged Care facility that opened in Casula earlier this year.

Overseen by a team of physiotherapists and fitness professionals, the 10-week course is designed to help clients identify their own falls risk and learn lifestyle tips to stay active and independent.

The first half of the two-hour long session focuses on a different educational topic each week such as recommended footwear, home hazards and managing medication.

The second half of the course involves a physical component with strength and balance exercises designed to reduce falls risk.

The centre also runs other fitness classes and offers an opportunity to make social connections and share information.

Increasing independence

Catholic Healthcare health and wellness coordinator and physiotherapist Sarah Fragiacomo says falls can have a dramatic impact on wellbeing and independence.

“One in three people over the age of 65 have a fall each year and if you fall once, you are 2-3 times more likely to fall again that year,” she said.

“Regardless of your age, it is important to maintain your functional independence. The key motivator to maintain independence in older people is so they can live in their own homes and community for longer.”

Catholic Healthcare client Molly, 93, says the Walking with Confidence program has noticeably improved her core strength and balance.

“I was beginning to get into some bad habits because of a fear of falling,” she said.

“I was leaving the lights on at home all night and wasn’t using my walker the way I should. “These exercises have increased strength in my legs and I feel more confident walking outside and at home.

“It has been really good to follow the exercises and meet other people from the area. I feel stronger and I can walk further than I have for a long time.”

Image: health professionals and clients at the Casula Wellness Centre (image supplied by Catholic HealthCare)

Comment on the story below. Follow Community Care Review on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn and sign up to our newsletter.