Stepping On program for preventing falls in older persons

Stepping On is a free, evidence-based falls prevention program designed to help independently living older people reduce their risk of falls and maintain their independence. Through interactive group sessions, participants gain practical knowledge and strategies to improve balance, strength and overall safety in their everyday lives.

This program is for people who:

are aged 65 and over (or 45 and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)
living independently (that is, not living in a residential aged care home)
can walk unassisted with or without a walking stick

It is particularly beneficial for individuals who:

have experienced a fall
feel unsteady on their feet
want to remain active and independent (this program is unsuitable for people with progressive neurological disorders and for people dependent on walking frames)

What you can expect:

Many older adults may face challenges with frailty as they age.

If you’ve felt unsteady or experienced a fall, here’s what you can expect from the Stepping On program:

improved physical health with exercises designed to boost strength and balance
greater confidence and independence as you overcome the fear of falling
expert guidance from guest speakers and health professionals
community support through a group setting which fosters peer encouragement and motivation

Stepping On involves weekly sessions for seven weeks and follow-up/booster sessions.

How to access the program

The Stepping On program is funded by South Western Sydney PHN and delivered by Activempowerment and Skilled Health.

People can self-refer or be referred by their clinician.

Referrals can be made directly to the service providers:

Activempowerment – Stepping On – Online Referral – Activempowerment

Skilled Health – Refer Stepping On – Skilled Health

Why it is important

Falls are a major health concern for older adults. Each day, more than 114 people aged 65 and older are admitted to NSW hospitals due to falls, which contributes to around 1,200 deaths annually.

In South Western Sydney, fall-related injuries have more than doubled since 2010. By 2031, the number of older adults affected by falls is projected to rise by 51.4 per cent, with Camden expected to see the largest increase (151 per cent) and Liverpool following (62 per cent).

Campbelltown currently has the highest rate of fall-related hospitalisations in the region.

Despite these alarming figures, many falls can be prevented. By improving strength, balance and awareness of everyday risks, older adults can reduce their risk of falling and stay independent for longer.