Applying the Otago Falls Prevention Program in Practice

Muscle strengthening and balance exercises are known to be the most effective measures to prevent falls in older adults. The Otago Exercise Program, specifically designed to prevent falls, is an individually tailored, home-based balance and strength falls prevention program delivered to older adults by a trained instructor. The Applying the Otago Falls Prevention Program in Practice training is a half-day workshop for exercise-based falls prevention, based on the international Otago Exercise Program principles. This interactive workshop explores the knowledge and skills required for allied health professionals to effectively screen, implement, and assess the outcome of exercise-based falls prevention interventions. The workshop includes the following content:

• Background and impact of falls

• Risk factors for falls and age-related changes

• Postural stability and orientation

• Falls risk assessment and screening tools

• Classification of faller types

• Multifactorial assessment

• Strength and balance for falls prevention

• Otago program principles, limitations, and adaptations

• Outcome measurement tools

• Stay On Your Feet® program

Who should attend?

This training is suitable for allied health professionals with an interest in exercise and older adults, including Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Exercise Physiologists, and Registered Nurses.