The programs listed below are offered by our network of partners and are not monitored by Healthy Aging NC. Please direct any questions you have about any of these programs to the contact provided in each program’s description.
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The Otago Exercise Program
The Otago Exercise Program is a series of 17 strength and balance exercises delivered by a Physical Therapist in the home that reduces falls between 35 and 40% for frail older adults. This program was designed to benefit older adults who: are concerned about falls, have fallen in the past, restrict activities because of concern of falling, and interested in improving flexibility, balance and strength. This evidence-based program, developed in New Zealand, calls for PTs to assess, coach and progress patients over the course of six months to one year. This program is individually tailored, home-based, a strength fall prevention program that is delivered through a physical therapist. Otago is designed to increase strength, balance, and endurance, and to develop a lifestyle change that incorporates strength and balance training through a minimum of 2 hours per week. Because this program is delivered by a licensed physical therapist, it is only available in certain locations within North Carolina. For further information, please click the button below.
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Enhance Fitness
Enhance®Fitness is a 16-week exercise program for older adults that uses simple, easy-to-learn movements that motivate individuals (particularly those with arthritis) to stay active throughout their life. Each program session includes cardiovascular, strength training, flexibility, and balance exercises and the fostering of strong social relationships between participants. The program meets 3 times a week for 60 minutes and is led by certified instructors. You can find this program at different NC YCMAs.
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YMCA: Moving for Better Balance
Moving For Better Balance is a 12-week Tai Chi program that is proven to reach fall prevention benefits once participants reach 50 hours of practice. Led by a Moving for Better Balance trained instructor, this program focuses on improving mental and physical ability to reduce fall-related risks and fall frequency. The training goals of this program are to improve static and dynamic postural stability, mindful control of body positioning within space, functional walking activities, movement symmetry and coordination, and to increase the range of motion around the ankle joints and build lower extremity strength. This program includes a progression of movements through a variety of challenges to suit the need of each participant, with additional home-based exercises introduced for additional out-of-program practice. You can find this program at different NC YCMAs.
Find a Better Balance Program