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HOW CAN I PREVENT FALLS ?

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Staying Physically Active

Physical activity, along with proper nutrition, is great for people of all ages and abilities. As you get older, staying physically active can help you to keep moving, and stay strong, all the while preventing the development of impairments which can lead to an increased risk for falls.

 

To learn more about simple ways to stay physically active, you are encouraged to take advantage of all the information and resources that are available below.

Before Getting Active

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As you know, the health benefits of regular physical activity are clear. Participating in physical activity is very safe for most people. However, older adults should consult their primary care provider before trying out a new exercise program or if they are unsure about the types and amounts of physical activity most appropriate for them. This is especially important for older adults at higher risk for falls.

 

To help you determine your readiness for a gradual increased physical activity, you are encouraged to print and complete the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q+). If in doubt after completing the questionnaire, please consult your primary care provider. 

 

Once it's confirmed that you are ready and able to participate in increased physical activity, we encourage you to consult resources such as the Physical Activity Tips for Older Adults, the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for Adults ages 65 years and older and the Active Aging in New Brunswick Toolkit to help you get started the right way.

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Another thing you should take into consideration before participating in any physical activity program is the importance of good nutrition to help you get the calories and nutrients you need to stay active. This includes making efforts to maintain a healthy and balanced diet in addition to drinking enough fluids to stay well hydrated.

 

For more information to help you maintain a good nutrition, please consult A Guide to Healthy Eating for Older Adults. 

Resources

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  • Staying Independent Checklist

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Physical Activity Programs
 
Want to be more physically active and reduce your risk of falling? All older adults are encouraged to participate in activities which are enjoyable, but which will also help to maintain muscle strength, balance, coordination and flexibility.
 
Many physical activity programs are available across the province. However, for more information about available physical activity programs for older adults in your community, contact the 211 NB Information Line by dialing 2-1-1.
 
If you are unable to participate in a community physical activity program in-person, consider getting active at home. To learn more about simple ways to increase your physical activity level at home, please consult Adding movement to your at-home routine.
 
You are also encouraged to visit Le GO pour bouger! to learn more about an excellent physical activity program which was created and adapted to help older adults stay in shape in the comfort of their home. Le GO pour bouger! consists of 5 color UNITS for 5 different exercise programs which are adapted to each older adult's level of physical fitness. Please click on the link below for more information.

Exercise-based Fall Prevention Programs

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Regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do to maintain your physical and mental health and quality of life as you get older. However, older adults at higher risk for falls may benefit more from participating in a specific type of physical activity program which focuses on improving mobility, balance and coordination to help prevent falls.

 

For more information about available exercise-based fall prevention programs within the province, please click on the following link.

Resources

 

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