Community exercise classes aim to curb fall-related hospitalisations among older Australians

Falls remain the primary cause of injury-related hospital admissions in Australia, disproportionately affecting people aged 75 and older and costing the health system about $5.4 billion in 2023-24. Community-based exercise initiatives, such as a free weekly class run out of a local centre and financed by the Brisbane South Primary Health Network, aim to boost balance, coordination and ankle stability for seniors like 79-year-old Sandra Franklin, who relies on the program to stay independent and active with her grandchildren.

Coach Julie McNaught reports participants notice easier daily tasks and fewer stumbles. University of Queensland geriatrician Professor Ruth Hubbard calls high-resistance and balance training the most effective fall-prevention tool and advises starting early. Emergency physician Dr Terry Nash notes that falls are a frequent trigger for emergency care and that preventing them eases pressure on overstretched departments. Complementary measures include home safety tweaks, good vision, nutrition and appropriate medication.