Balance and walking gait are two factors that influence quality of life and independence. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians:
- At least 30% of persons 65 and older report difficulty walking three city blocks or climbing one flight of stairs, and approximately 20% require the use of a mobility aid to ambulate.
- In a sample of noninstitutionalized older adults, 35% were found to have an abnormal gait.
- The prevalence of abnormal gait increases with age and is higher in persons in the acute hospital setting and in those living in long-term care facilities.
- In one study, gait disorders were detected in approximately 25 percent of persons 70 to 74 years of age, and nearly 60% of those 80 to 84 years of age. (July, 2010).
The National Council on Aging claims that falls, with or without injury, carry a heavy quality of life impact. A growing number of older adults fear falling and, as a result, limit their activities and social engagements (NCOA, 2017). This can result in further physical decline, depression, social isolation, and feelings of helplessness. In Stability, we improve movement confidence and independence by giving participants skills training specifically for fall prevention. This class would benefit anyone starting to experience a loss of balance and power, as well as those interested in skills-based training to prevent future decline in balance and power.