Community exercise programmes help reduce risk of falls in the over 65s

Low-cost, community exercise programmes can help reduce the risk of falls in people over 65, according to a new study.

Liverpool Community Health NHS Trust has just published findings from its new research.

These revealed that one hour, twice a week exercise instructor-led sessions of low intensity exercise provided sufficient levels of exercise to have a significant effect, reducing risk of falls by 17 per cent immediately after the programme and by 11 per cent six months after.

Bernie Cuthel, chief executive of Liverpool Community Health NHS Trust said: “As these latest research findings highlight, even just a small increase in activity levels can make a dramatic difference to someone’s overall health and wellbeing - especially in older age.”

The Trust worked with Liverpool John Moores University and carried out a year-long research study on the Trust’s Liveability service, which specialises in promoting the health and independence amongst older people.

People aged 65 and older have the highest risk of falling, with 30 per cent of people older than 65, and 50 per cent of those older than 80, falling at least once per year.

At present the incidence rate of hip fracture in the over 65s is significantly worse in Liverpool at 476 cases per year compared to the national average of 458 (Health Profile, 2011). Diane Singleton, Liveability service lead said: “These alarming statistics indicate a great need for effective approaches that help older people to improve their health, fitness, quality of life, and at the same time reduce the risk of falls.

“Clearly this is an extremely important area of research, particularly when you also consider our rapidly ageing population and the growing challenges that this poses for local health services.”

The study looked at the the effect of two hours per week of instructor-led gym type activities on physical fitness, strength, flexibility, balance, and aerobic endurance over a twelve week period. Each person who took part in the study was monitored at the start and end of the twelve week programme, as well as six and twelve months later to help assess the longer term impact.

The programme was effective in reducing the risks of falls in over 65s, by improving physical fitness, confidence, balance and enhancing their overall quality of life.

It was also effective in motivating people to be more active at home. People who took part in the programme kept up their improved physical activity and fitness levels up to six months after the twelve week programme had finished.

The study found there was a 41 per cent increase in physical activity after the programme and a 36 per cent increase six months afterwards. There was also seven per cent increased confidence in balance immediately after the programme and 4.8 per cent increase six months afterwards.