‘Get active and improve balance for fall prevention’ is the message WellSouth falls and fracture prevention team are promoting around Central this April Falls month.

‘April Falls’ is an annual campaign to raise awareness of the impact of falls and to promote the latest fall prevention strategies.

This year an ACC funded app called Nymbl, for older adults wanting to maintain or improve their balance from the comfort and safety of their home, has been released.

Research behind the Nymbl app shows many falls happen when a person is distracted. 

To combat this Nymbl pairs cognitive challenges with simple body movements to simultaneously challenge the user’s body and mind and reduce falls risk.

 To celebrate the release, the falls and fracture prevention team hosted a “Nibbles and Nymbl” event at a supermarket lobby in Alexandra yesterday (April 19).

The public came down, enjoyed a snack, tested out new strength and balance exercises, and the Nymbl app.

WellSouth falls and fracture prevention coordinator Nicole Hogg said they were excited ACC is funding an app so many New Zealanders will benefit from.

“It’s easy to use, accessible and fun too.”

 People who are unable to attend the community strength and balance classes but are at risk of falling can access in-home strength and balance support from WellSouth.

The WellSouth falls and fracture prevention team offer a free in-home service for those who qualify, developing a safe at home exercise programme.

The Nymbl app is another free at-home balance training programme suitable for older adults with access to a device.

 For more information contact: [email protected] or call 0800 477 115.