Live Stronger for Longer aims to reduce the economic, social, and personal impact falls have on older adults, their families and whānau, and their communities. This means reducing older adults’ risk of falling and getting a fracture if they fall.
Falls are the most common and costly cause of injury in people aged 65 years and over in New Zealand. Currently, one in six New Zealanders are 65 and over. Around 30% of people aged 65 and over who live in the community will fall at least once a year, and 10% to 20% will need hospitalisation.
Every older adult in New Zealand can attend a Community Strength and Balance class. You will benefit from participating in an approved strength and balance class delivered by a trained instructor. They also adjust exercises and set the pace to suit your ability.
These classes for older adults are held at Bupa Foxbridge, a retirement village in Forest Lake. Non-residents are welcome to attend the classes.
The classes are held in a lovely room, with a wonderful group of keen participants. There is a mix of standing and seated exercises, and you can do as much or as little as you wish. We use a variety of equipment (bands, balls, weights), and focus on strength, balance, cardio and mobility. Come and join us.