Hanover Area Starts “Fitness not Falls” Program for Older Adults

Hanover – Have you ever wanted to become more fit but wondered how fit you were and what you might do? If you are age sixty and over, there is now an opportunity for you to take part in local exercise programs.

The Community Coalition for the Prevention of Falls in Older Adults in partnership with the Hanover and District Hospital, Grey Bruce Heart Health, and the Grey Bruce Health Unit is sponsoring a “Fitness not Falls” information afternoon at The Village Seniors’ Community, 101 10th St Hanover on Thursday April 3 at 2:00 PM.  Guest speakers will provide information on how improved fitness decreases your chance of falls. There will also be literature available describing how exercise benefits heart health. Functional fitness testing for older adults will be explained. Exercise programs will be described and offered: strength and weight training; walking; Tai Chi and home video exercises. The functional fitness testing will be held the following Tuesday April 8. These programs are for non-frail older adults who are able to make the commitment to participate during April, May and June. Participants will receive the functional fitness test again after completing the programs. Enrolment is limited. No fee to attend. Refreshments provided.

Prevention of falls is a serious concern for Grey Bruce residents. Older Adults here fall and are more likely to be hospitalized than adults who live in other areas of the province. Falls and fear of falling can start the downward slope from independence to dependence. Do something for yourself today. For more information, contact Marguerite Thomas, Grey Bruce Health Unit, Walkerton 881-1920.