PREVENTING falls is crucial for older people and now there are local classes on the subject.
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Activities are being held at the Community Health gym at Wauchope District Memorial Hospital.
Wauchope physiotherapist Hannah Dyer says more than one in three people aged 65 or over fall at least once a year and many fall more often.
"Each year, falls lead to about 27,000 hospitalisations in NSW and at least 400 deaths of older people. Even falls where no injury occurs can have negative impacts on a person's life including a loss of confidence and restriction in their everyday activities.
"But the good news is that there is very good evidence to show that many falls among older people can be prevented. Staying active is the single most important thing we can do to remain fit and independent in our later years. Tai Chi, home exercises, dancing, gym, Pilates and yoga are particularly good exercises for improving strength and balance."
Other ways people can help to 'fall-proof' themselves are reducing hazards around the home, having regular eyes checks , wearing comfortable, firm fitting shoes, eating a healthy balanced diet for strong bones and muscles, and talking to their doctor about medications, which in some cases can lead to increased risk of falling.
At Wauchope, gentle exercise sessions are held between 9am and 10am every Friday in the Community Health Centre.
The exercise sessions are led by a physiotherapist and are focused on strengthening and balance exercises.