Los Angeles Jewish Home Institutes New Fall Prevention Program With Jewish Community Founda...( RESEDA Calif. June 16 /- The fame...),Health

RESEDA, Calif., June 16 /PRNewswire/ -- The famed nonprofit Los Angeles Jewish Home announced today the implementation of a fall prevention and fitness program designed to address one of the major health challenges faced by seniors. The program is funded by the Jewish Community Foundation, the largest manager of charitable assets for Jewish philanthropists in greater Los Angeles.

The new fall prevention and fitness program becomes part of the care the Home provides to all its residents and includes fall risk assessments, environmental assessments, a comprehensive fitness program and individualized care plans. "This program follows the Jewish Home's philosophy of providing a 'holistic' approach to healthcare," said Molly Forrest, president and chief executive officer. "It's part of our desire to take care of the whole person with an awareness of the body, mind and spirit. All of these are essential to good health and well-being."

Falls are a serious public health problem among older adults and are the leading cause of injury for people 65 or older. More than one-third of adults aged 65 years or older fall each year, and older adults are hospitalized for fall-related injuries five times more often than they are for injuries from other causes. Of those who fall, 20 percent to 30 percent suffer moderate to severe injuries that reduce mobility and independence.

As a way to minimize the risk of falling, the Home's new fitness program focuses on weight training, balance, posture and safety techniques. The program also incorporates nutritional guidance, emotional support, motivational and self-esteem encouragement, and breathing techniques.

Group classes in movement and exercise are conducted daily, with individualized activities and attention. The final component to the holistic exercise program is weight loss. Overweight issues impact the joints, knees and back and therefore negatively affect stability and balance. The program was instit
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