Balance & Falls Prevention

Falls are not an inevitable part of getting older. Targeted strength, balance and confidence training can meaningfully reduce risk and restore independence.

Accredited Exercise Physiologist conducting a balance and gait assessment with an older client at SOS Exercise Physiology.
  • Session
    Initial 60 min · Follow-ups 30–45 min
  • Where
    SOS Studio, Brunswick East — home visits available where appropriate
  • Funding
    Medicare CDM · DVA
  • Referral
    Private: no referral · Medicare/DVA/NDIS: referral required

Overview

What this service is — and isn't.

Around one in three Australians over 65 falls each year, and many lose confidence long before they lose function. The good news: targeted strength and balance training has strong evidence for reducing falls risk and the fear of falling.

We use validated screens (Timed Up and Go, Sit-to-Stand, Berg Balance Scale, grip strength) so we can show measurable improvement, not just feelings.

Sessions are calm, encouraging and tailored — whether you're staying ahead of decline, recovering from a fall, or supporting an older family member.

Matthew supporting an older client through a single-leg balance exercise.

Who it's for

Is this the right service for me?

  • Older adults wanting to stay independent
  • People who have fallen or feel unsteady
  • Family members supporting a loved one

What we see

Common issues & goals.

  • Reduced lower-body strength
  • Unsteadiness on uneven ground
  • Loss of confidence with daily activity

Benefits & outcomes

What you can expect to get out of it.

Improved balance and gait stability

Stronger legs, hips and core

Reduced falls risk and fear of falling

More confidence with daily activity

What to expect

A clear path from first session to lasting progress.

  1. 1

    Falls risk screen

    We assess strength, balance and gait using validated measures.

  2. 2

    Graded program

    Targeted strength and balance work delivered safely and progressively.

  3. 3

    Real-world confidence

    We translate the gym work into the activities that matter at home.

Session format

What a session actually looks like.

Duration
Initial 60 min · Follow-ups 30–45 min
Location
SOS Studio, Brunswick East — home visits available where appropriate
Equipment
Validated falls/balance assessments, low-step equipment, supportive strength gear
What to bring
Comfortable activewear, supportive enclosed shoes, walking aid if used.

Funding & rebates

How clients pay for this service.

We accept the following funding streams for this service. If you're unsure what applies to you, get in touch — we'll help you work it out.

  • MedicareMedicare CDM
  • Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA)DVA
  • NDISNDIS (self/plan-managed)
  • Private health (extras)
  • Self-funded

Evidence & approach

Grounded in the research.

Structured strength and balance training is the most consistently effective intervention for reducing falls in community-dwelling older adults (Cochrane).

Conditions we commonly see

People come to us for balance & falls prevention with things like:

  • History of falls
  • Sarcopenia
  • Osteoporosis
  • Post-hip fracture
  • Parkinson's disease (mild–moderate)
  • Post-stroke deconditioning

Inside a session

A look at what balance & falls prevention actually looks like at SOS.

Matthew guiding an older client through a balance task.
Validated falls and balance assessment in progress.
Reviewing the next steps of a balance and strength program.

FAQs

Quick answers.

Have a different question? Get in touch — we're happy to help.

Related

You might also be interested in.

Ready when you are

Book a free discovery call.

A quick, no-obligation chat to see if Matt's the right fit for your goals — recovery, rehab or performance. We'll get back to you the same business day.