Avoiding the Fall by VON Middlesex-Elgin Team
strategies, enabling seniors to live without the fear of falling. Staying active is an important part of staying healthy and independent. Our exercise and fall prevention classes are designed to enhance strength, balance, and cardiovascular health. They also aim to decrease social isolation and minimize hospital visits due to falls. Additionally, we teach seniors and adults with disabilities how to stay safe, remain active, and improve their strength and balance, regardless of their fitness level. These classes are ideal for clients who find it hard to take part in traditional exercise classes due to low mobility or poor health. The gentle yet progressive classes are led by a trained VON fitness instructor and/or volunteer. Group exercise classes truly cater to everyone in the community -- at retirement homes, or through zoom. The format can be easily adjusted to accommodate various levels of mobility and ability. Participants have the choice to use a chair for part of the class; in fact, VON classes can be conducted either seated or standing! Additionally, there are specialized classes for individuals living with Parkinson’s, MS, and for those recovering from brain injuries or strokes. All locations also feature an educational segment, exploring common fall risks and effective strategies to reduce risks. Contact the VON office at 519-659-2273 to learn more about SMART Exercise and Fall Prevention Classes in your area and to register.
In Canada, falls represent the leading cause of injury- related hospitalizations and deaths among individuals aged 65 and older. These injuries not only reduce the quality of life for seniors but also place added pressure on caregivers; they boost the number of admissions to long-term care facilities and add to the financial impact of treating fall-related injuries. Falls among older adults represent a significant public health issue globally. The World Health Organization reports that approximately one-third of older adults experience falls each year, with rates ranging from 32% to 42% for those aged 70 and older. The Public Health Agency of Canada reported that 1 in 3 seniors will fall this year and those with a history of falls or chronic conditions are at a greater risk of falling. Dr. El-Khoury reported in a randomized control trial that falls and related injuries, such as hip fractures, can seriously impact the lives of many older adults but the good news is that simple steps like attending local exercise programs or being active can prevent falls or the severity of injuries. Exercise has been proven to help seniors reduce fall risks by up to 34% depending on the program. November was falls prevention month but exploring evidence-based prevention should be a focus for seniors all year long. To address the increasing number of fall- related injuries among older adults, VON Middlesex-Elgin provides proactive measures that promote fall prevention
May the Christmas Season Bring you Peace and Joy.
Williams Funeral Home Ltd. 45 Elgin Street, St. Thomas, ON 519-631-0850 williamsfuneralhomeltd.com
The Hughson Family & Staff at Williams Funeral Home
You are never too old for the holidays!
Happy Holidays, Wishing you all the peace and joy in this Holiday Season
Page 10 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2024
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