As the weather begins to cool this autumn, it's the perfect time to focus on maintaining strength and stability to prevent falls, one of the leading causes of injury among older Australians.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), falls are the most common cause of hospital admissions for older Australians, and one in three people over the age of 65 will experience a fall each year. These falls can lead to serious injuries, including fractures and loss of mobility. The good thing is you can find a simple, effective way to reduce the risk of falls in the pool – Hydrotherapy.
Hydrotherapy, or aquatic therapy, is a low-impact treatment method that uses the buoyancy of water to support your body whilst providing resistance to improve strength, balance, and flexibility. This makes it an ideal solution for people at risk of falls, particularly older adults or those recovering from surgery or injury.
Why Hydrotherapy is ideal for fall prevention
Unlike land-based exercises, Hydrotherapy offers a gentle, supportive environment that reduces strain on joints and muscles and at the same time, delivers significant strength-building benefits. The warm water helps to relax muscles, making it easier to move and exercise, whilst the water's resistance allows for a full-body workout. Some of the key benefits of Hydrotherapy for falls prevention include:
- Improved Strength & Balance: Hydrotherapy exercises target muscle groups essential for maintaining balance and stability, such as the core, legs, and ankles.
- Increased Range of Motion: The warm water aids in stretching and increasing flexibility, helping to prevent the stiffness that can contribute to falls.
- Enhanced Confidence: Hydrotherapy provides a safe environment for people to challenge their physical limits, helping to rebuild strength and confidence in their ability to move.
Hydrotherapy and tailored fall prevention
At Healthstin, our experienced Exercise Physiologists and Physiotherapists work with you to design a personalised fall prevention programme employing Hydrotherapy based on your individual needs, goals, and functional ability. Whether you’re recovering from a recent fall or simply want to strengthen your muscles to reduce future risks, our programmes are designed to help you stay strong, safe, and independent.
Our Hydrotherapy pool is designed to provide the optimal environment for rehabilitation and fall prevention. With the guidance of our health professionals, all of whom are accredited Learn to Swim instructors, you can work at your own pace in a supportive and comfortable setting.
According to research reported by the Australian Physiotherapy Association, regular Hydrotherapy can reduce the risk of falls in older adults by improving strength, coordination, and overall physical function. At Healthstin, our holistic approach to fall prevention combines the latest evidence-based practices with individual care to ensure the best outcomes for our clients.
Call us at 1300 090 931 for more information, check out our website here or you can book a session here. Feel free to visit our Allied Health Clinic in Belmont to learn more about how Hydrotherapy can help you prevent falls.
