With an estimated 35-45 per cent of older adults falling at least once a year in the Bay of Plenty, a programme is being set up to help reduce the statistic.

In addition to an increased risk of falling, many people who fall over develop a fear of falling, which may limit activities of daily living reducing mobility, independence and quality of life, says medical exercise specialist Brennan Mullan.

Brennan says it's essential that balance exercises be incorporated into the physical activities of older adults as preventative measures against falling, and the debilitating effects it can have.

He says although balance impairments are complex and there are many factors involved, exercise is one of the most effective treatments.

'Until recently few if any balance programmes have been on offer in the community for older adults.

'One programme now being offered in the Bay of Plenty addresses this important issue of balance impairments in our community and provides a unique opportunity for the elderly to get physically active.

'The Balance and Falls Prevention programme offered at Abilities in Action, a service of the Disabilities Resource Centre, is a specifically designed program for older adults that is suitable for all levels.”

The programme provides members with a consultation with a qualified medical exercise specialist in which an assessment of your risk of falling and balance level is conducted.

The programme is designed to improve balance, functional strength, and aid in preventing future falls and improve the ability to perform activities of daily living, but most of all provides a safe and social environment for the elderly to engage in physical activity.

'The Balance and Falls Prevention programme has been gaining great results with a notable increase in confidence,” says Brennan.

'All participants to date have shifted from a high falls risk classification to a moderate or low falls risk classification since engaging in the programme with no reported falls.

'This is having a significant impact on their function and attitude towards life and highlights the importance of exercise for seniors no matter the barriers.”

A programme participant, who wishes to remain anonymous, says falling over had become a constant in their life.

'A broken hand, broken ribs, a twisted back. All in six months, leaving behind a deep fear which prevented me from using stairs, walking anywhere without a stick or walker or visiting friends and family in their homes, it had all become too hard to keep safe.

'I was redirected to Abilities in Action which is set up to give assistance to a variety of people having mobility problems.

'I joined the Balance and Falls Prevention programme and attended twice a week for one hour. Under the direction of a highly qualified supervisor I have thrived, going from strength to strength.”

Six months later the participant says they were able to walk confidently without support, climb up and down stairs, and visit family and friends.

'My constants now are confidence, gratefulness and enjoyment of my life.”

Abilities in Action is inviting people to trial a class for free for all new members.

To find out more about this programme contact Abilities in Action on 07 575 0105.