Preventing Falls by Staying 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.
The health benefits of regular physical activity are clear. However, you should consult a healthcare professional if you are unsure if you are able to participate in an exercise program due to a medical condition. This is especially important for older adults at higher risk for falls.
Before Getting Active
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.
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 Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for Adults ages 65 years and older.
Physical Activity Programs
Many exercise programs are available across the province. For more information about available physical activity programs for older adults in your community, contact 211 Nova Scotia by dialing 2-1-1.
Learn about free Physical Activity Counselling from Nova Scotia Health.
Exercise-based Fall Prevention Programs
Zoomers in Balance
Want to be more physically active and reduce your risk of falling? Join a Zoomers class today! The overall goal is to improve balance and reduce risk of falls by offering free exercise classes to adults 50 years of age and older who can exercise with minimal supervision.
There are no Zoomers classes running in Nova Scotia at this time. However, you can may join Zoomers classes held in New Brunswick online in your own home: Zoomers In Balance—Join Our Exercise Program as a Participant
A pilot program was run in 2024 out of Dave’s Multisport in Bridgewater. Classes are currently on hold. Work is underway to create a model to sustain and expand the program in N.S. For more information, contact Suzanne Baker at shbaker@dal.ca.
