- Why Seniors Are More Prone to Falls
- Building Strength for Stability
- Improving Balance and Coordination
- Safety First
- How Physiotherapy Can Help
- Take the First Step
Falls are one of the most common and serious risks older adults face. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, one in three adults over 65 experiences a fall each year. The consequences can range from minor bruises to fractures, hospital stays, and even a loss of independence. But here’s the good news: many falls can be prevented. With the right exercises, proper guidance, and a little awareness, seniors can stay strong, confident, and steady on their feet. At Sheddon Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic Burlington, we help seniors achieve just that.
Why Seniors Are More Prone to Falls
As we age, our bodies change. Muscles naturally lose strength, joints may stiffen, and balance can become more challenging due to vision changes or inner ear adjustments. Certain medications or chronic conditions can also make you feel dizzy or unsteady. Even everyday things, like loose rugs or poor lighting at home, can increase the risk.
The good news is that by understanding these challenges, we can take action. Targeted strength and balance exercises, combined with guidance from a physiotherapist, can make a real difference.
Building Strength for Stability
Strength is the foundation for safe movement. Exercises that target the legs, hips, and core help seniors maintain stability during everyday activities, from climbing stairs to getting up from a chair. For example, standing up from a chair repeatedly strengthens the quadriceps, glutes, and core, making daily transfers safer. Heel raises engage the calves, improving ankle stability, while mini squats strengthen thighs and hips, giving you a more solid base for walking and other movements.
These exercises don’t need to be complicated or exhausting — even simple, consistent movements can help seniors regain strength and confidence.
Improving Balance and Coordination
Balance exercises are just as important as strength training. They teach your body and brain to respond to changes in position and terrain, reducing the likelihood of falls.
Practicing a single-leg stand, for instance, challenges your balance while building strength in supporting muscles. Tandem walking, where you place one foot directly in front of the other, improves coordination and steadiness. Gentle weight shifts, moving from side to side or forward and backward, enhance postural control and body awareness. Over time, these exercises help seniors feel more confident in their movements, whether navigating their home, walking outside, or getting around in the community.
Safety First
It’s important to practice these exercises safely. Using a sturdy chair or countertop for support, wearing non-slip shoes, and moving slowly and deliberately can reduce the risk of injury. Focus on proper form rather than speed, and progress gradually as your strength and balance improve. For seniors with recent injuries or chronic conditions, working with a physiotherapist ensures exercises are tailored to your abilities and limitations.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
At Sheddon Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic Burlington, we take a personalized approach to fall prevention. We assess your strength, balance, flexibility, and walking patterns, then design exercises that meet your individual needs. Beyond exercises, we provide guidance on posture, safe movement strategies, and home safety modifications to further reduce risk.
With the right combination of guidance, training, and support, seniors can improve their stability, prevent falls, and maintain independence — all while enjoying daily activities with confidence.
Take the First Step
Falls don’t have to be part of aging. By strengthening muscles, improving balance, and working with a physiotherapist, you can move safely and confidently every day. Contact Sheddon Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic Burlington today to schedule a fall-prevention assessment and start a program tailored to your needs.
