This infographic is the first part of «Balance exercises for older people» (here part 2) and was created as part of the TREK project (falls prevention section). You can find more information about falls prevention in the TREK site folowing this link.
It is based on Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA) Position Statement on exercise and falls prevention in older people (2011).
1. Graded reaching in standing
Progression…
- Narrower foot placement.
- Reaching further and in different directions.
- Reaching down to a stool or the floor.
- Reaching for heavier objects.
- Standing on a softer surface, e.g. foam rubber mat.
- Stepping while reaching.
2. Stepping in different directions
Prgression…
- Longer or faster steps.
- Step over obstacle.
- Pivot on non-stepping foot.
3. Walking practice
Progression…
- Decrease base of support, e.g. tandem walk.
- Increase step length and speed.
- Walking on different surfaces.
- Walking in different directions.
- Walk around and over obstacles.
- Heel and toe walking.
Reference
Tiedemann A, et al. Exercise and Sports Science Australia Position Statement on exercise and falls prevention in older people. J Sci Med Sport (2011), doi:10.1016/j.jsams.2011.04.001
Spanish version