Wednesday, 20 June 2012
HEALTH staff are helping to boost the bones of Cardiff residents during Falls Awareness Week.
The Physiotherapy Team at St David’s Hospital, is keen to encourage activities that tie in with the ‘Boost Your Bones’ theme of this year’s event.Cardiff and Vale University Health Board Physiotherapist, Joe Sweeney, said: “Bone health is very important in preventing falls as bone strength declines as we age.
“Any physical activity that encourages the body to support its own weight is a great way to maintain healthy bones and reduce fall risk, for example walking, marching on the sport, or stair climbing.”
Laurie Phillips, 97, and James Jones, 87, are patients at St David’s Hospital and have been practising the weight bearing exercises. Physiotherapy Technical Instructors, Lyn Phillips and Amanda Spellacey helped the two patients to march on the spot, use stepping blocks, and complete a word search about the benefits of fall prevention.
A display stand providing information about the Falls Week will be in St David’s foyer for staff, patients, visitors and the general public to access.
For further information about Falls Awareness Week, take a look at the Age Cymru website or download Age UK’s Falls Awareness Week action pack.
