NoFalls Exercise Program
Background
Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC) conducted the first NoFalls program in collaboration with the City of Whitehorse in the late 1990's.
This was a randomised controlled trial testing the effectiveness of a number of falls prevention interventions for older people. One of the findings of this study was that one intervention in particular, the NoFalls Exercise Program, produced significant reductions in falls risks.
NoFalls is a 15-week group exercise program, with a strong focus on balance enhancement. Studies have shown that balance can be improved through challenging the balance systems, practicing balance strategies and improving strength and flexibility.
The NoFalls exercises emphasise:
- Muscle extensibility, and to a lesser extent, joint flexibility
- Strength of muscles critical for posture and balance
- Proprioception
- Visual and vestibular stimulation
- Reaction time
- Relearning the elements of a balance task
No Falls Exercise Program Manual
The manual is designed for use by trained exercise professionals. The exercises should not be performed without instruction by a trained exercise leader.
Designed as a flip chart, the manual gives:
- Full description of 15-week group exercise
- Exercises clearly explained and illustrated
- Details of precautions, modifications and progressions are given where necessary
- Clear details of when to introduce different exercises are provided with a chart giving the duration of exercises within each session
- Suggestions for home exercises are given
- Pages can be photocopied for use by participants in home exercise programs
The manual is available in both hard copy and electronic format.